Cyber reputation risk events can reduce shareholder value by 27%: Aon

Cyber events that cause reputation risks can lead to an average 27% drop in shareholder value, according to Aon’s 2025 Global Cyber Risk Report.

The report analysed more than 1,400 cyber events globally, identifying which types are most likely to evolve into reputation risk events and which are most damaging when they do.

Of the cyber events analysed, 56 developed into reputation risk events—defined as cyber attacks that attract significant media attention and result in a measurable decline in share price.

Companies affected by these events saw an average drop of 27% in shareholder value.

Malware and ransomware attacks were the most likely to cause reputational damage, accounting for 60% of all reputation risk events, despite representing just 45% of overall cyber incidents.

The report identified five key drivers of value recovery: preparedness, leadership, swift action, communication, and change—all considered critical for mitigating reputational fallout.

It also highlighted the increasing challenge of managing uninsurable risks. While cyber insurance can help transfer some financial exposure, reputation risk remains largely non-transferable, reinforcing the importance of proactive risk management and crisis response.

Brent Rieth, global cyber leader at Aon, said, “Cyber risk is no longer just a technology issue — it’s a boardroom issue.

“Our latest research underscores the importance of proactive risk mitigation. Organizations that invest in preparedness and resilience are far better positioned to avoid the reputational and financial fallout that can follow a cyber event.

“As cyber threats grow more complex and interconnected, companies need a clearer view of their exposure, stronger alignment between cybersecurity and insurance strategies, and the tools to make better, data-driven decisions. Aon is uniquely positioned to support clients through these challenges.”

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