# Cybersecurity threats and data breaches in France > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cybersecurity-threats-and-data-breaches-in-france > Updated: 2026-09-16T17:45:01.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. France is experiencing an increase in cybersecurity threats, characterized by both corporate ransomware attacks and personal data breaches. A report by Sophos indicates that French companies are primary targets for ransomware, with 85% of victimized organizations identifying the incidents as identity-related attacks. While median ransom demands have decreased to $500,000, the average cost for recovery has risen by 65% compared to 2025, reaching approximately $2.02 million. The study also noted that France had the highest rate of attacks entering via VPN at 15%. Concurrently, data from Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr and Ipsos Digital shows a rise in personal data leaks among the population. In 2026, 45% of French citizens reported being notified of a data breach, up from 30% the previous year. These leaks, which often involve names, addresses, and contact details, are frequently utilized to facilitate scams. Phishing via email or SMS affects 53% of the population, while fraudulent bank advisor scams impact 15% of those surveyed. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-16: France sees surge in personal data breaches A new report shows 45% of French citizens were notified of a personal data breach in 2026, up from 30% the previous year, as phishing and personalized scams continue to rise. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/france-sees-surge-in-personal-data-breaches ### 2026-08-24: France faces rising ransomware costs and identity security vulnerabilities Sophos reports that French companies face rising ransomware costs, averaging $2.02 million per recovery, with 85% of victims experiencing significant identity-related security breaches. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/france-faces-rising-ransomware-costs-and-identity-security-vulnerabilities --- Cite as: Cybersecurity threats and data breaches in France. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cybersecurity-threats-and-data-breaches-in-france