Italian business security and safety challenges

Italian businesses continue to face escalating security and safety threats, spanning physical crime, digital vulnerabilities, and workplace hazards.

In late 2026, data from Confcommercio highlighted a rise in “spaccate,” or smash-and-grab crimes, where shop windows are smashed. Nationally, 34.8% of businesses reported being victims, with many targeted multiple times. In cities like Bari and Palermo, business owners reported a decline in neighborhood livability due to microcrime and vandalism, leading many to invest in video surveillance.

Digital security remains a critical concern. While 2025 saw a 42% rise in cyber incidents, the first half of 2026 saw attack volumes reach 93% of the previous year’s total. Italy reportedly accounts for approximately 10% of global cyberattacks, despite representing less than 2% of global GDP. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are particularly vulnerable: 26% have suffered successful intrusions, with 37% losing clients or partners as a result.

Workplace safety also shows a declining trend. Following 1,198 fatalities in 2025, fatal workplace accidents in Italy increased by 5% during the first nine months of 2026, totaling 823 deaths. The Lazio region experienced a 17.7% increase in fatalities, a rate significantly higher than the national average. Reports also highlight increased risks for foreign workers and a rise in female mortality rates. In response, the National Cybersecurity Agency and labor unions are calling for enhanced prevention strategies, specialized training, and stricter regulatory compliance.