Cyberattacks are no longer rare or isolated events. They’re happening every day, all around the world, and to businesses of every size. Some industries are hit harder than others, and it’s not always the ones you’d expect. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk through 30 critical statistics that show which industries are being attacked the most—and, more importantly, what you can do to protect your business.
1. 43% of cyberattacks target small businesses
Small businesses are often seen as easy targets. Why? Because most of them don’t have strong cybersecurity in place.
Hackers know this and go after them more often than large corporations. If you’re a small business owner, this stat should be a wake-up call.
Many small businesses think they won’t be attacked because they’re not big enough. That’s a dangerous assumption. In reality, small businesses often hold customer data, financial records, and employee information—everything a hacker needs.
So, what can you do? Start by using multi-factor authentication for all accounts. Update software regularly. Train your staff to spot phishing emails. And don’t rely on just one layer of protection.
Use antivirus software, a firewall, and backups stored offsite. It might feel overwhelming, but even basic steps can make you much harder to hack.
2. The healthcare industry saw a 74% increase in cyberattacks year-over-year
Healthcare data is incredibly valuable on the black market. Medical records can be worth more than credit card numbers. That’s why attacks in this sector have exploded.
Hospitals and clinics are especially vulnerable because they need access to systems 24/7. They can’t afford downtime. That means ransomware attacks are often successful because organizations feel forced to pay.
If you’re in the healthcare space, it’s critical to encrypt all patient records. Limit who has access to sensitive data. Make sure backup systems are in place and tested regularly.
And finally, make cybersecurity training part of employee onboarding—everyone needs to understand their role in protecting patient information.
3. Financial services face 300 times more cyberattacks than other industries
Banks, credit unions, and investment firms handle vast amounts of money and personal data. It’s no surprise they’re targeted constantly—300 times more than most other sectors.
Most of these attacks aren’t just brute force attempts; they’re sophisticated. Hackers study financial systems and employees carefully before launching phishing campaigns or insider threats.
Financial institutions must go beyond the basics. Behavioral analytics, intrusion detection systems, and regular third-party audits should be standard. Clients also expect transparency—so having a clear incident response plan is key. If trust is lost, it’s very hard to regain.
4. Manufacturing became the most attacked industry in 2022
The shift to digital manufacturing, especially with Industry 4.0 technologies, opened new doors for attackers. Connected machines and smart factories offer efficiency—but also risk.
Most manufacturing systems weren’t designed with security in mind. They run on old software or legacy systems that are rarely updated. Hackers exploit these weak spots to install ransomware or steal trade secrets.
To defend against this, manufacturers must secure their operational technology (OT) networks. Keep OT and IT systems separate when possible. Regularly audit the network for outdated machines or devices.
And train employees to avoid social engineering attacks that often start at the user level.
5. Ransomware attacks on education increased by 44% in one year
Schools and universities hold more data than most people realize. Student records, financial aid info, and even research data can be valuable to criminals.
But the bigger problem? Most educational institutions are underfunded in cybersecurity. That means poor defenses, outdated systems, and limited response capability.
If you’re part of an educational institution, start by segmenting your network—don’t allow full access from every device. Use cloud-based backups for all essential data.
Consider hiring an outside cybersecurity firm to audit your defenses once a year. You can’t afford to be reactive. Get ahead of it now.
6. 93% of healthcare organizations experienced a data breach in the past three years
This stat is staggering. Almost every healthcare organization has been breached recently. That shows how widespread and persistent the problem is.
A breach can cost millions—not just in dollars, but in lost trust, lawsuits, and regulatory penalties. HIPAA violations alone can lead to six-figure fines.
The fix isn’t simple, but it starts with strong access control. Only allow authorized personnel to view or change medical data. Use secure messaging platforms—not email—for sharing patient information. And always keep your systems patched and updated. Small cracks are all hackers need.
7. The energy sector saw a 46% rise in cyber incidents year-over-year
The energy industry powers everything. That’s why attackers see it as a high-value target. Shutting down a power grid or oil pipeline can cause massive disruption—and make headlines.
Attacks on this sector are often politically motivated. They may come from nation-state actors or advanced hacker groups.
Energy companies should invest heavily in intrusion detection and incident response teams. Backup generators and manual overrides should always be tested. And most importantly, train employees to recognize suspicious activity. Your people are your first line of defense.
8. Retail was the target in 24% of all phishing attacks
Retail companies often deal with high volumes of customer interactions, especially online. That creates more entry points for attackers using phishing scams.
Phishing emails may look like shipping updates, coupon codes, or account alerts. All it takes is one employee to click the wrong link and expose the entire system.
Retailers must train every employee—not just IT staff—to spot suspicious messages. Use anti-phishing filters. And create a policy for reporting suspected phishing attempts. Encourage reporting without fear of punishment—early detection is everything.
9. Government agencies accounted for 12% of all ransomware attacks
Governments have access to sensitive information and provide critical services. That makes them prime ransomware targets. Some hackers also attack these agencies to make political statements or disrupt public trust.
Many local governments run on outdated systems, making them especially easy to breach.
To fix this, public agencies need better funding for cybersecurity. They should also enforce two-factor authentication, encrypt all sensitive data, and conduct regular drills for ransomware scenarios. An agency without a tested backup and recovery plan is a ticking time bomb.
10. 1 in 5 manufacturing firms reported shutting down production due to cyberattacks
When production stops, so does revenue. That’s why attacks on manufacturing can be so damaging. Hackers often use ransomware to freeze operations, knowing that the company may feel pressure to pay quickly.
The problem is that many manufacturers prioritize efficiency over security. They don’t think about cyber threats until it’s too late.
To change this, cybersecurity must become part of the production strategy. Run penetration tests on your systems. Limit the internet access of production devices. And make sure all software—including machines’ firmware—is updated. Even one weak device can bring your factory to a standstill.
11. 54% of IT professionals in legal services reported a rise in phishing attempts
Law firms handle sensitive data—contracts, personal details, corporate secrets. That makes them attractive to cybercriminals. The rise in phishing shows how attackers are trying to trick employees into giving access to that data.
Phishing often targets junior employees or support staff who aren’t trained in security. Once inside, attackers move laterally across the network.
Every law firm should run phishing simulations at least twice a year. Test how your team responds and provide follow-up training. Also, make it easy for employees to verify suspicious emails. A culture of security goes a long way.
12. The education sector experienced over 1,600 weekly attacks per organization
That’s not a typo. Over 1,600 attacks per week. Schools and universities are under constant digital siege, and most don’t have the tools to keep up.
Many educational institutions use open Wi-Fi networks, shared logins, and outdated devices. These are all easy targets for hackers.
Start by requiring secure logins for all users. Separate guest networks from internal systems. And review software licenses—don’t let outdated apps stay connected. Even basic hygiene like password management can stop many attacks before they begin.
13. 71% of ransomware attacks targeted small and mid-sized businesses
Smaller companies are easier to compromise and less likely to have backups in place. That makes them ideal ransomware victims.
When faced with a ransom demand, many pay simply to get their data back. But that only encourages more attacks.
The key is preparation. Set up automated, offline backups that can’t be encrypted by ransomware. Have a written recovery plan and test it often. And educate staff on how ransomware spreads—often through email attachments or unsecured remote access.
14. 66% of energy companies reported at least one operational technology (OT) breach
Operational technology includes the systems that run power plants, pipelines, and refineries. These systems were never designed with security in mind—they were built for reliability.
But hackers have learned to exploit them. A breach in OT can cause real-world damage, even physical harm.
Energy companies must isolate OT networks from IT systems. Apply strict access controls and regularly patch known vulnerabilities. Also, don’t forget third-party risk—many OT breaches come through vendors or contractors with poor security habits.
15. Financial institutions spent an average of $18 million annually on cybersecurity
That number may sound high, but it reflects how seriously the financial world takes cyber threats. Every dollar spent is aimed at preventing much greater losses.
Small banks and credit unions should follow suit—within budget, of course. Even simple investments in encryption, secure communication tools, and threat detection can make a big difference.
The key is to think of cybersecurity as a business priority, not just an IT task. Regular board-level discussions and budget allocations are essential. Risk doesn’t wait—neither should you.
16. 60% of breaches in the public sector were due to human error
Technology alone won’t stop cyberattacks. People play a huge role. In the public sector, more than half of breaches are caused by simple mistakes—clicking on the wrong email, using weak passwords, or failing to follow security rules.
That means the best defense isn’t always new software—it’s better training. Government departments should run simple, clear workshops on how to handle emails, manage passwords, and report suspicious activity.
Don’t overwhelm employees with jargon. Instead, teach them how to recognize threats in plain language.
Also, reduce the number of people who have access to sensitive data. The fewer the users, the fewer chances for mistakes.
17. 50% of construction companies lack a formal cybersecurity plan
The construction industry is increasingly digital—blueprints, contracts, vendor communications, and even machinery can all be controlled online. But half the companies in this space don’t have any formal cyber plan. That’s a major risk.
Construction sites often use mobile devices and cloud storage, which can be vulnerable if not properly secured. There’s also the risk of data theft through unprotected Wi-Fi or lost equipment.
To fix this, every construction firm—no matter the size—should have a cybersecurity plan. Start simple. Who handles security? What happens during an attack? Where are backups stored? Even a basic policy is better than none.
Make sure your field workers are also trained. They use devices in the real world and often work with sensitive project data. Keeping them in the loop is critical.
18. The average cost of a healthcare data breach reached $10.93 million
This is the highest of any industry. The costs come from multiple sources—legal fees, lost patients, compliance penalties, and damage to reputation. And the costs keep rising every year.
If you’re in healthcare, your focus should be on prevention, not just reaction. Encrypt everything—at rest and in transit. Use identity verification for anyone accessing systems. And make regular security reviews part of your operations.
Also, know your legal obligations. Healthcare is a regulated industry, and compliance isn’t optional. A breach without proper safeguards in place can be financially devastating.
19. 76% of retailers faced malware-based attacks in the past year
Retail is a hot target because it involves money, transactions, and customer data. Attackers often inject malware into payment systems or e-commerce platforms to steal card numbers and identities.
Point-of-sale (POS) systems are a frequent weak point. Once infected, they can silently collect data for weeks before anyone notices.
To avoid this, keep your POS software updated. Use endpoint detection tools that flag unusual activity. And separate payment systems from general business networks. If a hacker gets into your email, that shouldn’t give them access to your registers.
Also, check all third-party vendors. If you use an outside platform or service for payments, make sure their security is just as strong as yours.
20. 90% of attacks on transportation were aimed at supply chain disruption
Transportation and logistics are the backbone of every economy. Delays in this sector affect everything from grocery stores to medical supply chains. That’s why attackers target it—they want to cause maximum disruption.
Cybercriminals often attack software that manages routing, scheduling, or cargo tracking. Even a small glitch can cause chaos across the system.
Companies in transportation need strong system redundancy. If one part of the network goes down, another should take over. Also, run regular “what-if” drills. What if a system is locked for 48 hours? Who do you contact? How do you operate manually?
Preparation is everything. If your business is part of a supply chain, your cybersecurity affects more than just you.
21. Insurance firms saw a 50% rise in credential theft attacks
Credential theft happens when attackers steal usernames and passwords, usually through phishing or malware. Insurance companies are big targets because they store massive amounts of personal and financial data.
Once attackers have a login, they can move quietly within a system, stealing data slowly without setting off alarms.
To stop this, insurance firms must use two-factor authentication (2FA) on all accounts—internal and customer-facing. Encourage customers to use strong passwords, and don’t let systems rely on static credentials alone.
Also, monitor for unusual login behavior. If someone logs in from another country at midnight, that’s a red flag. Respond fast, and don’t wait for users to notice.
22. Over 40% of attacks on telecommunications were advanced persistent threats (APTs)
APTs are long-term, stealthy attacks where the goal is to stay hidden inside a network for weeks or months.
These types of attacks are common in telecom because of the massive amounts of data handled—and the access telecom providers have to government, business, and personal communications.
If you’re in telecom, you need advanced monitoring tools. Look for unusual patterns over time, not just single events. Invest in threat hunting teams that actively search for intrusions, not just wait for alerts.
Patch management is also critical. APTs often enter through old vulnerabilities that never got fixed. Make updating part of your monthly routine—not a one-time task.
23. The education sector experienced a 30% increase in ransomware attacks in one year
Ransomware is hitting schools and universities hard. These institutions often don’t have backups, or don’t know how to restore them. That makes them more likely to pay the ransom.
It’s not just about paying, though. Restoring systems, notifying students, and facing media scrutiny takes a massive toll.
If you work in education, create offline backups and store them safely. Automate the backup process so it’s always running. And practice restoring your systems from scratch at least once a year. When disaster strikes, knowing how to recover matters more than anything else.
24. 35% of breaches in the legal industry were caused by insider threats
Insider threats come from employees, contractors, or partners who have access to systems and use it—intentionally or by accident—to harm the organization.
Law firms deal with confidential client information, mergers, contracts, and sensitive court documents. If someone inside leaks or steals that data, the consequences can be severe.
Use role-based access—only give people access to what they need. Monitor for unusual behavior, like someone accessing hundreds of documents they normally don’t touch. And educate your team. Sometimes, insider threats come from simple ignorance, not malice.
25. 68% of tech companies experienced phishing as the primary attack vector
Even in the most advanced industries, phishing works. It’s easy to fall for a well-crafted email, especially when it looks like it comes from HR, payroll, or a trusted vendor.
Tech companies often trust their teams to know better—but that trust can backfire. Everyone is human, and everyone can make a mistake.
Combat phishing with routine drills. Send fake phishing emails and track who clicks. Provide feedback and training afterward. Also, use tools that flag suspicious links or attachments in real time. You’re not just protecting devices—you’re protecting your entire business model.
26. The hospitality industry saw a 20% rise in point-of-sale system breaches
Hotels, restaurants, and travel businesses rely on fast, easy payment systems. That convenience can come at a cost. Attackers target POS systems to skim credit card data and compromise customer accounts.
If you work in hospitality, isolate POS systems from your guest Wi-Fi and internal networks. Use encryption from swipe to server. And replace outdated machines regularly. Older systems are often the easiest to breach.
Make sure your vendors—especially payment processors—have strong security practices too. A breach on their end can affect your business just as much.
27. 61% of attacks on critical infrastructure used ransomware
From water treatment plants to power grids, critical infrastructure is being targeted with ransomware more than ever. These attacks aren’t just about money—they can cause real danger to public health and safety.
Governments and private operators alike need to secure both their IT and OT systems. Backups must be tested. Response plans must be detailed and fast.
And perhaps most importantly—don’t ignore warnings. Many major attacks were preceded by signs that went unnoticed. Monitor your systems 24/7 and respond to even small anomalies.
28. Over 80% of breaches in healthcare involved personal health information (PHI)
PHI is a goldmine for cybercriminals. It includes names, birthdates, medical history, and insurance info—everything needed for identity theft or fraud.
Every healthcare provider, from hospitals to solo practices, must take data protection seriously. Encrypt all records. Lock down access. And avoid storing PHI on local devices—use secure cloud systems with strict permissions.
Don’t forget paper records, either. Shred anything with patient data before disposal. A breach doesn’t have to be digital to cost you everything.
29. 59% of utility companies reported DDoS attacks in the past 12 months
Distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks overwhelm systems with traffic, taking them offline. For utility companies, that can mean service disruptions, billing errors, or worse.
DDoS attacks are often used as distractions while another part of the system is being breached.
Use network monitoring to spot unusual traffic spikes. Have a response plan ready. Work with your internet provider on traffic filtering tools. And make sure your public-facing systems are separate from core infrastructure—don’t let a website takedown affect your operations.
30. 95% of attacks on government sectors exploited known, unpatched vulnerabilities
This stat is frustrating because it means most of these breaches could have been prevented. The vulnerabilities were already known, and fixes were available—but they were never applied.
Governments must prioritize patching. Make it part of your monthly calendar. Use vulnerability scanning tools to see what’s out of date. And when a patch is released for a high-risk issue, apply it within 24–48 hours.
Speed matters. Hackers often scan the internet for known flaws within hours of a patch being released. Don’t be the agency that waits.
wrapping it up
Cyber threats aren’t slowing down—and the industries we’ve covered are living proof. From small businesses to massive government agencies, no one is off-limits.
The numbers don’t lie: attackers are strategic, relentless, and constantly adapting. They go after industries where the reward is high and defenses are low.
