Violent Threats Against Corporate Executives Rise 66% in US Tech Industry

An investigation has revealed a troubling trend: violence threats against top executives of large corporations are on the rise. The survey, conducted by a global security and human resources services company, involved 2,352 security managers from medium to large enterprises across 31 countries. The findings indicate that the global corporate sector is facing an increasing number of violent threats, with the technology industry in the United States being the most severely affected.

The survey highlighted that 66% of security managers in large U.S. tech companies reported an increase in violent threats against their executives over the past two years. This alarming trend has prompted many companies to enhance security measures for their top executives and their families. The chief executive of the security firm noted that since the high-profile murder of the president of a major healthcare company last year, the number of executives receiving security protection has doubled. Additionally, the number of risk assessments conducted in the first half of this year has increased fivefold compared to any previous full fiscal year.

Across all industries, 42% of security managers reported a significant increase in violent threats against corporate executives. The survey also identified misinformation as a key factor contributing to these threats. Approximately 75% of security managers reported that their companies had been targeted by false or misleading information, which could potentially put employees at higher risk. Industries such as technology, defense, and pharmaceuticals are particularly vulnerable to such attacks, as are executives who comment on politically sensitive issues.

In response to these threats, companies are implementing various measures to safeguard their executives. These include strengthening security protocols, conducting risk assessments for the leadership team, especially during travel, and monitoring online threats. The survey's findings align with the analysis of corporate statements, which show that expenditures in the security sector are on the rise. This trend underscores the growing concern among corporations about the safety of their top executives in an increasingly volatile environment.