Missed Opportunities in M&A Cyber Due Diligence
Integrating cyber due diligence early in the Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) process is crucial in uncovering hidden risks and aligning with regulatory compliance. Private Equity (PE) firms are increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats, with 60% of firms lacking cyber insurance prior to making an investment and up to 25% experiencing incidents in the past year. Enhancing cybersecurity efforts post-acquisition not only protects investments but also drives long-term value.
The Growing Threat of AI Scams & Fraud
Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing technology, but it’s also being exploited by scammers to commit sophisticated fraud. From deepfakes to voice cloning, AI-powered scams are becoming harder to detect and more damaging. Since the rise of generative AI, fraud has surged by 80%. To stay ahead, organizations must proactively manage AI-related risks, recognize emerging threats and respond swiftly to protect their people and data.
Ransomware & AI-Driven Phishing Surge
So far in 2025, a significant increase in ransomware payloads and AI-powered polymorphic phishing campaigns has been observed. Ransomware payloads are up 22.6% and phishing emails have risen 17.3%, with 82.6% now leveraging AI. Alarmingly, attackers are now targeting hiring processes to gain access to sensitive systems, highlighting the essential nature of holistic cybersecurity strategies.
NHS Ransomware Attack Leads to Tragic Consequences
A ransomware attack on NHS blood services in London last June led to the unexpected death of a patient at King’s College Hospital. The cyber-attack also disrupted over 10,000 appointments and caused significant delays in blood test results. This unfortunate incident highlights the significance of effective cybersecurity practices in the healthcare industry and the urgent need to diversify critical supply chains as part of vendor and supply chain risk management.
