Three in four EU workers encounter suspicious messages or links
A Eurobarometer survey found that 72 per cent of employees believe they can identify suspicious emails, but only 54 per cent check the sender before following a link.
Three-quarters of EU workers have encountered potentially unsafe messages, emails or links in their workplace, a Eurobarometer survey published on 30 September by the European Commission found. Phishing was the most frequently reported threat: 39 per cent of employees said they had received fraudulent communications or reached fake websites intended to capture data or secure unauthorised access.
Attempts to steal personal information were reported by 18 per cent of respondents, while 17 per cent had encountered malware attacks and 16 per cent attempts to obtain passwords. Another 15 per cent reported scams using artificial intelligence. Although 83 per cent said cyberattacks could have serious consequences, confidence in recognising manipulated content was lower: 48 per cent believed they could identify a deepfake video.
Greece’s Hellenic Data Protection Authority (HDPA) used the findings during European Cybersecurity Month to highlight organisations’ responsibilities after a personal data breach. It reminded public bodies and private companies that Article 33 of the General Data Protection Regulation requires notification to the relevant supervisory authority.
Under Article 34, affected individuals must also be informed without undue delay if a breach is likely to pose a high risk to their rights and freedoms. Such risks can include identity theft, financial fraud or disclosure of sensitive information. The HDPA urged organisations to review their preparedness, update response plans, provide regular staff training and incorporate data protection throughout their handling of incidents.
