# Italian business security and safety challenges

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/italian-business-security-and-safety-challenges
> Updated: 2026-11-05T07:22:04.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2.

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.

## Timeline

### 2026-11-05: Italy faces rising cybersecurity threats and workplace fatalities

Italy faces a dual crisis of rising cybersecurity threats, accounting for 10% of global attacks, and increasing workplace fatalities, which rose 5% in early 2026.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/italian-businesses-face-rising-workplace-accidents-and-cyberattacks

### 2026-10-13: Confcommercio reports rise in smash-and-grab crimes across Italy

A Confcommercio survey shows rising “spaccate” (smash-and-grab) crimes in Italy, with 34.8% of businesses already affected and many more fearing future attacks.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/confcommercio-report-highlights-rise-in-smash-and-grab-thefts-in-italy

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Cite as: Italian business security and safety challenges. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/italian-business-security-and-safety-challenges