What Companies Get Wrong About Data Security in 2025

It's no secret that businesses are facing more challenges than ever when it comes to data security. Hackers are using sophisticated tools like AI and decentralized networks to bypass traditional security software.

But if data security is such a well-understood issue, why do companies continue to make the same costly mistakes? With the risk of data breaches at an all-time high, the consequences of ignoring these threats can be devastating.

Learn about the common mistakes businesses are still making in 2025 — and how to protect your company from falling into the same traps.

Mistake #1: Overreliance on Outdated Security Tools

Many companies still use legacy antivirus and firewall systems that can't handle modern, AI-powered attacks. Instead of using adaptive security measures, they rely on older systems that aren't effective and lack real-time monitoring.

As a result, by the time a breach is identified, it is often too late, and the damage has already been done. To mitigate this risk, businesses can use newer solutions like extended detection and response (XDR), endpoint detection and response (EDR), and threat intelligence platforms.

Mistake #2: Underestimating Internal Threats

Insider threats, whether malicious or accidental, are common but often go unnoticed. Organizations typically prioritize external attacks, which can leave them without proper internal access controls or monitoring systems.

This oversight heightens the risk of data theft, as systems are primarily designed to defend against outside threats, allowing insiders to evade these protections.

To mitigate this risk, it's important to enforce least-privilege access and regularly audit permissions. Companies should also raise awareness to ensure any accidental threats are avoided.

Mistake #3: Treating Cybersecurity as an IT-Only Problem

Data security is usually considered an issue for the IT department to address. This perception can lead to a lack of company-wide training and executive involvement.

To establish a security-focused culture, companies need to engage all departments. There should be clear company policies and best practices that leaders actively promote.

Additionally, cybersecurity should be part of onboarding, and employees should have ongoing training. They should be aware of the procedures for reporting suspicious activity and feel comfortable raising these threats.

Mistake #4: Neglecting Cloud and SaaS Security

The explosion of cloud tools in 2025 has outpaced many companies' ability to secure them. A lot of the time, businesses assume these platforms are automatically secure. However, that's not always the case.

Some of the most common risks include misconfigured cloud storage, weak API security, and a lack of visibility into third-party vendor practices.

Companies can use cloud security posture management (CSPM) tools to reduce these risks and conduct regular audits.

Mistake #5: Delayed Detection and Response

According to a recent report, security teams take an average of 258 days to identify and contain a data breach. This prolonged detection window leaves businesses vulnerable, as many breaches go unnoticed for way too long.

The longer it takes to spot a breach, the greater the potential damage. Early detection can reduce both the impact and recovery time. To improve response times, businesses should invest in data breach detection solutions that offer real-time alerts and proactive monitoring.

Mistake #6: Not Considering the Role of AI

In a 2025 WEF report on cybersecurity, nearly 47% of organizations cited adversarial advances powered by GenAI as their main concern.

Their main fear about new technology is that it allows more advanced and scalable attacks. In the previous year, the number of reported phishing and social engineering attacks sharply rose.

As AI-enhanced attacks become more frequent, many companies aren't adapting fast enough, and hackers can easily evade security systems. One way to reduce these risks is to use AI-based monitoring and automated defense systems.

Learn From the Mistakes

In 2025, being reactive is no longer an option. All companies need to be aware of these common pitfalls and understand the steps they need to take to become more resilient.

Evolving with these threats and taking a proactive, hands-on approach to cybersecurity should be one of the top priorities for businesses today.