Why APAC is the prime target for cybercriminals

Computer screen with system failure written on it and blog title why APAC is a prime target for cybercriminals

Global, Nov 19, 2025

The Asia-Pacific region has become a global hotspot for cybercrime, accounting for 34% of incidents in 2024. As a critical component of the global supply chain and its position as a technology and manufacturing hub, the region is an irresistible target for cybercriminals. 

Rapid digital transformation creates vulnerabilities

APAC’s accelerated adoption of cloud services, IoT, and e-commerce has expanded its digital ecosystem. Unfortunately, this rapid transformation has grown its attack surface, with growth outpacing security measures. 

With organisations deploying new platforms to transform at pace, many are doing so without robust safeguards, leaving critical vulnerabilities exposed. 

Despite unprecedented spending on security solutions, the Logicalis CIO Report found that 91 per cent of organisations in APAC experienced cybersecurity incidents in the last 12 months, with 53 per cent enduring multiple breaches, raising questions about the effectiveness of security spending.

Strategic role in global supply chains and economic incentive

APAC is home to major manufacturing hubs and tech innovators, making it a high-value target for intellectual property theft and operational disruption. Research from IBM shows that manufacturing accounted for 40% of attacks, followed by finance and insurance at 16%. The region’s fast growing digital economies, combined with significant economic potential, make it a prime target for cybercriminals, including nation-state actors driven by geopolitical tensions and economic incentives. 

Rise of AI-powered and sophisticated attacks

The rise of AI-driven cybercrime has transformed the threat landscape. Generative AI enables attackers to create convincing phishing campaigns and automate malware development. With a significant surge in deepfake-based social engineering and fraud, system intrusion attacks now account for 80% of breaches in APAC, with ransomware dominating and advanced persistent threats (APTs) targeting critical infrastructure. 

Human error and cybersecurity skills gap

Despite technological advancements, human error continues to be a major vulnerability. In 2019, Gartner predicted that by 2025 99% of cloud security failures will be the customer’s fault due to misconfiguration and mismanagement. While the actual figure may be lower than this, whether through misconfigured cloud environments or phishing emails, the impact of human error cannot be underestimated. 

The issue is compounded by a severe cybersecurity talent gap. With organisations struggling to recruit and retain skilled professionals, many are being left ill-equipped to combat increasingly complex threats. 

The way forward

APAC’s position as the most targeted region is unlikely to change soon. However, organisations can mitigate risks by adopting zero trust architectures, investing in AI-driven threat detection, and prioritising cybersecurity awareness training. Regional collaboration and harmonised regulations will also play a pivotal role in strengthening defences against evolving threats. 

As cybercriminals innovate, so must defenders. For businesses across the world, and in particular APAC, cybersecurity isn’t optional. It’s a strategic necessity. 

Want to know more?

#ThreatHuntersAPAC

Join us as we travel across Singapore and Malaysia, uncovering the real stories behind cyber defence in the world’s most targeted region.

Topic

Related Insights