The Rising Threat of Device Theft: A Wake-Up Call for Corporate Security Investments

In an era defined by remote work and hybrid办公 environments, businesses face a silent but costly menace: device theft. A groundbreaking 2025 study by Vanson Bourne for Kensington reveals that 76% of U.S. and European companies have suffered device thefts in the past two years, with profound financial, operational, and reputational consequences. From laptops to external storage drives, stolen devices are now a leading vector for data breaches and lost productivity—a crisis demanding urgent investment in security infrastructure.

The Cost of Neglect: Financial and Operational Fallout

Device theft isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a financial time bomb. The study highlights that 30% of organizations have faced increased insurance premiums due to repeated thefts, while another 30% incurred direct losses from replacing stolen hardware. Even more alarming, 33% of businesses suffered legal or regulatory penalties after data compromises linked to unsecured devices. For instance, the IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report 2024 notes that breaches tied to stolen devices now average $4.88 million per incident, a 10% jump from prior years. These costs are compounded by operational disruptions: 32% of respondents reported measurable productivity declines due to theft-related downtime.

Data Breaches: The Silent Partner of Theft

The link between device theft and data breaches is undeniable. 46% of survey participants admitted to suffering a breach directly caused by unsecured devices—a figure that underscores the vulnerability of sensitive corporate data. Notably, organizations that failed to use physical security locks (like those produced by Kensington) were 60% less likely to avoid such breaches compared to those that did. This data paints a clear picture: physical security is the first line of defense against cyber threats.

The Rise of Remote Work Fuels the Crisis

The shift to remote and hybrid work has exponentially increased exposure. 22% of respondents cited insecure home networks as a primary data-loss risk, while 23% feared “visual hacking”—sensitive information being viewed in public spaces. These findings highlight a critical flaw in modern work models: devices are now scattered across uncontrolled environments, from coffee shops to commuters’ bags. As metal theft and cargo theft rise globally, businesses must adapt to a world where physical security is no longer optional.

Investment Opportunities in Security Solutions

The study’s most compelling takeaway? 97% of IT decision-makers recognize physical security locks as critical to preventing theft and breaches. This consensus creates a clear investment thesis: companies offering robust physical and digital security solutions are positioned to thrive.

Take ACCO Brands (ACCO), the parent company of Kensington, whose portfolio includes laptop locks, docking stations, and security software. reveals steady gains, driven by rising demand for device security. Competitors like Lexmark (LXK) and Brother Industries (6450.T) also offer complementary solutions, but ACCO’s focus on physical security locks aligns directly with the study’s findings.

Meanwhile, cybersecurity firms like Palo Alto Networks (PANW) and CrowdStrike (CRWD) benefit indirectly, as data breaches tied to theft drive demand for advanced digital safeguards. The Global Cybersecurity Market, projected to reach $401 billion by 2030, reflects this growing urgency.

Conclusion: A Call to Secure the Unseen

The data is unequivocal: device theft is no longer a niche concern but a systemic risk to corporate health. With 76% of businesses impacted in just two years, and breach costs soaring past $4.88 million, inaction is financially irresponsible. Investors should prioritize firms like ACCO, whose products directly address these vulnerabilities, and cybersecurity leaders enabling layered defenses.

Yet the true value lies in prevention. Companies that invest in physical security locks, employee training, and robust IT policies can reduce theft-related losses by over 60%—a stark contrast to those left exposed. In an era where data is the ultimate asset, the message is clear: secure the device, or risk losing everything.

The market is sending a signal: invest in security, or pay the price later.