German CEOs face burnout risks due to cybersecurity responsibilities

A study by data security provider Cohesity reveals that cybersecurity responsibilities are causing significant psychological pressure for German CEOs. Out of 100 executives surveyed, 77 percent reported feeling pressure due to their cybersecurity duties, and 60 percent expressed concerns regarding burnout.

Key fears among the participants include legal liability (41 percent), reputational damage (34 percent), career impact (33 percent), personal liability (30 percent), and job loss (28 percent). Some executives even expressed concerns regarding their own personal safety (23 percent) and the safety of their families (17 percent).

The study highlights a gap in preparedness; only 49 percent of respondents feel psychologically prepared for their role, and over one-third believe it is impossible to truly prepare for the consequences of an attack. Compared to counterparts in France and the United Kingdom, German CEOs appear less prepared, with only 13 percent reporting they would be informed of an attack within five minutes, compared to 30 percent in France and 19 percent in the UK.