How Cybersecurity Boosts Business Resilience & Growth [2024 Insights] (2026)

In the digital age, where data is the new oil, cybersecurity is no longer just a technical necessity but a strategic imperative for businesses worldwide. The latest global study by Kaspersky reveals that organizations across Asia-Pacific (APAC), including Vietnam, are increasingly recognizing the transformative power of cybersecurity, going beyond mere threat mitigation to drive growth and resilience. This shift in perspective is particularly intriguing, as it challenges the traditional view of cybersecurity as a cost center rather than a strategic investment.

One of the most striking findings of the study is the emphasis on data protection as the primary value of cybersecurity enhancements. With the increasing volumes of sensitive business and customer information being processed, organizations are realizing that protecting data is not just about compliance but also about ensuring operational continuity. This is especially relevant in Vietnam, where 31% of respondents cited data protection as the top benefit, highlighting the country's growing awareness of the importance of safeguarding digital assets.

However, the study also reveals a deeper understanding of the multifaceted benefits of cybersecurity. The ability to improve operational efficiency, including reducing incidents and optimizing workloads, is the second most frequently cited advantage. This is particularly interesting, as it suggests that organizations are beginning to see cybersecurity as a tool for enhancing productivity and competitiveness. In Vietnam, 26% of respondents identified this as a key benefit, indicating a growing appreciation for the operational advantages of robust cybersecurity measures.

The desire to prevent attacks rather than deal with their consequences is another significant finding. This highlights the shift in mindset from reactive to proactive cybersecurity. Organizations are increasingly recognizing that investing in capabilities to identify vulnerabilities and intercept attacks before they occur is far more cost-effective and strategically advantageous. This is especially true for businesses in Vietnam, where 22% of respondents cited the prevention of attacks as a key benefit, underscoring the country's growing focus on proactive cybersecurity measures.

The study also reveals the impact of previous experience with cyber incidents on business priorities. Firms that avoided security incidents over the past year are more likely to associate cybersecurity with improving operational efficiency and maintaining compliance. In contrast, companies that experienced incidents place greater emphasis on the ability to safely adopt new technologies and reduce financial and human error risks. This highlights the importance of learning from past experiences and adapting cybersecurity strategies accordingly.

Adrian Hia, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky, emphasizes the often-overlooked role of cybersecurity in driving business performance. He argues that by strengthening cybersecurity resilience, organizations can improve operational efficiency and focus on growth rather than recovery. This perspective is particularly relevant for businesses in Vietnam, where the study reveals a growing recognition of cybersecurity as a key driver of business performance.

In conclusion, the Kaspersky study highlights the evolving role of cybersecurity in the digital age. Organizations across APAC, including Vietnam, are increasingly viewing cybersecurity as a strategic investment that goes beyond protecting against cyber threats. By embracing this shift in perspective, businesses can unlock the full potential of cybersecurity, driving growth, resilience, and competitiveness in the digital era. This is a crucial takeaway for organizations in Vietnam, as they navigate the complexities of the digital landscape and strive to stay ahead of the curve.