A recent survey of European crisis experts indicates that cyber crises pose the greatest risk potential for companies, even ahead of economic disruptions or political instability
Cyberattacks are part of today’s reality – and might pose an existential threat
In an indicative survey, 11 of the 18 CCNE member agencies identified cyberattacks as the most severe current risk facing their clients. The threat extends beyond immediate reputational damage and includes significant economic repercussions, potentially leading to insolvency. Even though cyber crises have unfortunately become a routine occurrence, many organizations continue to underestimate their full scope – both from a technical and a communications standpoint.
Alarming numbers – Businesses frequently lack preparedness
The survey reveals a critical assessment of crisis preparedness: around 90 percent of European experts rate their clients’ level of preparedness as moderate or poor. A common misconception is that the mere existence of a digital crisis manual provides sufficient security. However, in the event of a serious cyber crisis, such manuals are often inaccessible when they are needed most. Truly effective preparedness goes far beyond documentation: it requires regular training, realistic scenario-based exercises, and a clear allocation of responsibilities in the event of a crisis.
Resilience is becoming a key focus – yet preparedness remains inconsistent
Many experts view positively that the topic of resilience – the ability to endure crises and emerge stronger – is gaining increasing importance. More and more companies recognize that crisis resilience must be built strategically, whether in response to foreign threats or natural disasters and their consequences. At the same time, there is a fragmented picture when it comes to practical implementation: while some companies demonstrate growing willingness for active preparation and pragmatic solutions, many still operate predominantly reactively and on an ad hoc basis when a crisis occurs.
Early warning systems, media training & AI – how companies protect themselves
The surveyed CCNE partners rely on concrete preventive measures in their consulting work:
- Over 70% of experts utilize early warning systems, such as social media monitoring or issue monitoring.
- One third already employ AI-based tools for the early detection of critical developments.
- Media training and risk workshops are standard components of crisis preparedness for more than half of the agencies.
AI is changing crisis communications
The survey shows that artificial intelligence is no longer just a vision of the future – it is already actively being used. Tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, Cognivis, Claude, and Canva support our colleagues across Europe with scenario analyses, monitoring, and the rapid development of initial communication approaches. AI does not replace experience – it complements it. For the work as communications specialist, it is crucial to integrate new technologies purposefully and responsibly into our work.
Major challenges of tomorrow – these issues concern Europe’s crisis professionals
European crisis experts observe a clear trend: the complexity of challenges in crisis communication is set to increase further. According to the CCNE survey, key future topics include:
- Cyberattacks and IT security incidents
- Artificial intelligence and automated disinformation
- Geopolitical tensions and their economic consequences
- Polarization and societal division
- Fake news and identity theft
- Climate change and environmental disasters
Companies would be well advised to integrate these issues early into their crisis planning – both organizationally and communicatively.
International exchange – CCNE Annual Meeting 2025 in Warsaw
The results of the CCNE Crisis Pulse Check were presented at the annual network meeting, which this year took place at the Polish partner agency 24/7 Communications in Warsaw. For two days, members discussed the most important crisis trends, best practices, and new tools in an international context. This strong network means cross-border expertise, direct operational capability on the ground, and coordinated communication in the event of a crisis for all the clients.
The survey was initiated within the CCNE. Decision-makers (owners, CEOs, senior consultants) from all 18 member agencies of the CCNE were interviewed in March and April 2025.