Cybercrime is an ever-growing threat that impacts individuals and businesses alike. Recent studies reveal alarming trends, particularly in certain states where the risk of cyberattacks is significantly higher.
With the rise in personal data breaches and tech support scams, understanding which states are most vulnerable is crucial for residents and organizations looking to protect themselves.
Among the states topping the list, Hawaii stands out with a risk level more than quadruple that of the lowest-scoring state.
In this guide, we’ll explore the ten states with the highest cybercrime risk, shedding light on the factors contributing to their vulnerability and the implications for residents and businesses.
1: Nevada
Nevada ranks as the state with the highest cybercrime risk, scoring 762 out of 10. The state’s population of 3,194,176 resulted in 10,551 annual victims from 2020 to 2023, showing a staggering 276% increase in victim counts over four years.
Cyberattacks have caused financial losses soaring by 252% since 2017, totaling $44,994,168. This amount is 72% higher than losses reported in neighboring Idaho.
Recent incidents, such as the Gaming Control Board’s website being offline due to a cyberattack, underscore Nevada’s growing vulnerability to these threats.
2: Alaska
Alaska ranks as the second state with a high risk of cybercrime, scoring 725 out of 10. With a population of 731,545, Alaska recorded 2,637 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023.
This reflects a significant 150% increase in victim counts over four years. Financial losses due to ransomware and phishing attacks have also risen, totaling $12,300,459, which is about 60% higher than reported losses in neighboring Washington.
Alaska’s remote location and sparse population can make residents particularly vulnerable to tech support scams and identity theft.
3: Maryland
Maryland ranks third in cybercrime risk, scoring 711 out of 10. The state’s population of 6,177,224 has faced 5,286 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023, reflecting a troubling 145% increase in victim numbers.
Financial losses due to cyber incidents have soared, reaching $24,810,205, which is 65% higher than losses reported in neighboring Virginia.
High-profile breaches, including attacks on state government agencies, underline Maryland’s vulnerability.
The presence of numerous tech companies and government facilities further attracts cybercriminals, increasing the need for robust cybersecurity measures.
4: Colorado
Colorado ranks fourth in cybercrime risk, scoring 710 out of 10. With a population of 5,773,714, it reported 4,052 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023, marking a 130% increase in victim counts.
Financial losses have climbed to $20,144,560, nearly 55% higher than losses in neighboring New Mexico. Frequent attacks on educational institutions and local businesses highlight Colorado’s vulnerabilities.
The state’s growing tech industry, combined with an increase in remote work, has made it a prime target for phishing schemes and identity theft, necessitating rigorous cybersecurity measures.
5: Florida
Florida ranks as the fifth state with a high risk of cybercrime, scoring 695 out of 10. With a population of 21,538,187, the state has documented 11,890 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023, reflecting a 120% increase in victim numbers.
Financial losses due to cyber incidents amount to $45,736,287, marking a stark rise of 80% compared to neighboring Georgia.
Numerous phishing attacks, identity theft cases, and ransomware threats contribute to Florida’s cyber vulnerabilities.
The large number of retirees and online transactions further increase exposure to cybercriminal activities, highlighting an urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity awareness and measures.
6: Iowa
Iowa ranks sixth in cybercrime risk, scoring 687 out of 10. With a population of 3,190,369, Iowa recorded 2,450 annual cybercrime victims between 2020 and 2023, indicating a 110% increase in victim counts.
Financial losses from cyber incidents total $18,238,532, about 50% higher than losses in neighboring Illinois. Common threats include phishing scams and ransomware attacks, targeting both businesses and individuals.
The growing reliance on technology across sectors makes Iowa particularly vulnerable, emphasizing the importance of heightened cybersecurity awareness and proactive measures.
7: Washington
Washington ranks seventh in cybercrime risk, scoring 680 out of 10. It has a population of 7,888,000, reporting 3,900 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023, reflecting a 100% increase in victim counts.
Financial losses due to cyberattacks total $15,123,786, about 40% higher than losses in neighboring Oregon.
Common threats include phishing scams and malware attacks, targeting both individuals and organizations.
Washington’s significant tech industry presence attracts cybercriminals, highlighting the importance of robust cybersecurity measures for residents and businesses alike.
8: Delaware
Delaware ranks eighth in cybercrime risk, scoring 676 out of 10. With a population of 1,003,890, the state has seen 1,290 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023, marking a 90% increase in victim counts.
Financial losses due to cyber incidents total $7,802,675, around 45% higher than losses reported in neighboring Maryland.
Common threats include phishing attacks and identity theft, impacting both individuals and small businesses.
Delaware’s business-friendly environment attracts cybercriminals, highlighting a critical need for enhanced cybersecurity measures among residents and organizations.
9: California
California ranks ninth in cybercrime risk, scoring 670 out of 10. It has a massive population of 39,538,223, reporting about 25,000 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023, reflecting a 100% increase in victim counts.
Financial losses due to cyber incidents total over $100 million, significantly higher than those in neighboring Arizona. Common threats include data breaches, phishing schemes, and ransomware attacks.
The state’s vibrant tech industry and high online activity make it particularly attractive to cybercriminals, necessitating urgent investments in stronger cybersecurity defenses.
10: Arizona
Arizona ranks tenth in cybercrime risk, scoring 658 out of 10. It has a population of 7,151,502, reporting 3,185 annual cybercrime victims from 2020 to 2023, indicating a 95% increase in victim counts.
Financial losses due to cyber incidents total $12,940,785, about 30% higher than losses in neighboring New Mexico.
Common threats include phishing scams and identity theft, significantly affecting both individuals and businesses.
Arizona’s expanding tech sector and growing online services demand urgent attention to cybersecurity measures to protect residents from escalating threats.
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