A threat that no longer confines itself to large groups
The idea that cybercrime would target only the big accounts remains widespread. Yet the data published by ANSSI reveal a different reality. In France, a majority of reported incidents concern SMEs, local authorities, and intermediary structures. In 2025, this dynamic continues, driven by industrialized attacks that primarily seek out systems that are insufficiently watched.
The consequences are felt quickly. Unavailable business tools, slowed production, or compromised data undermine the organization. In many cases, awareness only comes after the incident, when the financial and operational impacts become visible.
Technical fragilities still common
Field feedback highlights recurring weaknesses. Backups that do not exist or are tied to the main network, administrator access that is poorly monitored, and remote connections that are not sufficiently managed are among the most exploited entry points.
These situations rarely result from deliberate indifference. They reflect a shortage of time, resources, and visibility into concrete risks. In this context, the support of a cybersecurity company helps clarify the situation and prioritize actions without overburdening the existing systems.
A first step is to objectively measure your level of exposure. Without this visibility, trade-offs remain unclear and priorities difficult to set, hence the value of an intrusion test (pentest) conducted under realistic conditions.
GDPR and NIS2, a framework that changes the game
The legal framework has tightened significantly. Protection of personal data is under closer scrutiny, with sanctions already issued against several French organizations. The NIS2 directive broadens this perimeter to many economic and industrial players, far beyond the sectors historically involved.
These texts go beyond broad principles. They focus on actual practices, on an organization’s ability to manage an incident and to document its choices. Compliance is thus based on observable facts, not on stated intentions.
The pentest as a structuring starting point for cybersecurity
In light of this reality, certain approaches serve as foundational building blocks. The penetration test relies on scenarios drawn from attacks actually observed. It highlights exploitable weaknesses before a malicious actor discovers them.
The report produced from this audit provides a clear snapshot of exposure. It helps prioritize fixes, guide budgeting, and drive measurable progress. For many companies, this step marks a reliable first assessment.
What awaits companies on the horizon of 2026
The coming months look more demanding. Controls intensify, executive accountability becomes clearer, and attacks target environments that are increasingly varied. Organizations that structure their cybersecurity approach now will face this evolution with greater clarity.
In this context, cybersecurity no longer remains a purely technical concern. It is integrated into the overall management of the business, alongside financial, legal, and industrial challenges.
The rise of cyber risk permanently reshapes operational balances. Having a clear view of vulnerabilities and priorities becomes a governance tool, on par with financial or legal constraints. This structured understanding reduces decisions made in moments of urgency.
