GITNUX MARKETDATA REPORT 2024

Cybersecurity In The Qsr Industry Statistics

Cybersecurity incidents in the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry are expected to increase as digitalization and reliance on technology continue to grow, with an emphasis on protecting customer data and securing online transactions.

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Highlights: Cybersecurity In The Qsr Industry Statistics

  • Nearly 7 out of 10 restaurants don't budget for technology spending or cybersecurity, according to a report from getronics.
  • More than 88% of QSR customers are worried about cybersecurity and data privacy.
  • The fast food industry is viewed as the most unsecure sector, with 75% of respondents experiencing at least one form of cyber-attack.
  • 60% of QSRs share data across their systems without any encryption.
  • 70% of organizations in the fast food industry do not make use of real-time monitoring of system and network activity.
  • It's reported that one in three consumers won't visit a restaurant if it was recently hacked.
  • According to the National Restaurant Association, 61% of restaurants who experienced a data breach in 2019 were small businesses.
  • Point of Sale (PoS) systems used in QSR industry continue to be the primary target of cyber attacks, providing about 64% of all stolen data.
  • More than 52% of all cyber attacks against the restaurant industry happen via remote access.
  • About 50% of QSR restaurants don't have a written cybersecurity policy in place.
  • Phishing is the cause of about 90% of data breaches in the QSR industry.
  • About 20% of QSR data breaches are caused by the negligence or misconduct of company insiders.
  • QR code scams have seen an increase in the restaurant industry by 15% in the last year.
  • Around 70% of all payment breaches in 2019 occurred in the food service industry.
  • Roughly 31% of customers would avoid a QSR for a month following a cyber attack.
  • A report by industry experts suggests that QSRs will increase their IT spend by an estimated 18% for maintaining cybersecurity.

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The Latest Cybersecurity In The Qsr Industry Statistics Explained

Nearly 7 out of 10 restaurants don’t budget for technology spending or cybersecurity, according to a report from getronics.

The statistic reveals that the majority of restaurants, specifically approximately 70%, do not allocate funds towards technology spending or cybersecurity measures, as reported by getronics. This suggests that a significant portion of the restaurant industry may be neglecting important investments in technology infrastructure and security protocols. As technology plays an increasingly crucial role in modern business operations, such as online ordering systems, data management, and customer information protection, the lack of budgeting for these aspects could leave restaurants vulnerable to cyber threats and at a competitive disadvantage. It highlights the need for restaurants to prioritize technology investments and cybersecurity measures to ensure their long-term success and protect against potential risks.

More than 88% of QSR customers are worried about cybersecurity and data privacy.

The statistic that more than 88% of Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) customers are worried about cybersecurity and data privacy suggests a high level of concern among consumers within this industry regarding the security of their personal information. This finding may indicate a growing awareness and apprehension towards potential cyber threats and data breaches, likely influenced by the increasing prevalence of such incidents across various sectors. As customers become more conscious of the risks associated with sharing personal data online, QSR establishments must prioritize implementing robust cybersecurity measures and transparent data privacy policies to reassure consumers and safeguard their sensitive information, ultimately fostering trust and loyalty among their customer base.

The fast food industry is viewed as the most unsecure sector, with 75% of respondents experiencing at least one form of cyber-attack.

The statistic reveals that the fast food industry is perceived as the most vulnerable sector in terms of cybersecurity, with 75% of respondents reporting having encountered at least one type of cyber-attack. This high percentage suggests that a significant majority of companies in the fast food industry have been targeted by malicious cyber activities, such as data breaches, ransomware attacks, or phishing schemes. The implications of this statistic are concerning as it indicates a widespread issue of cybersecurity weaknesses within the fast food sector, highlighting the urgent need for better protection measures and increased awareness of cyber threats in the industry.

60% of QSRs share data across their systems without any encryption.

The statistic indicates that 60% of Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) transmit data across their systems without using any encryption methods. This means that sensitive information such as customer data, payment details, and operational data may be vulnerable to unauthorized access or interception. The lack of encryption leaves QSRs at a higher risk of potential data breaches, which could lead to financial losses, damage to brand reputation, and regulatory non-compliance. To mitigate these risks and ensure the security of customer and business data, QSRs should prioritize implementing encryption protocols to safeguard their data transmissions effectively.

70% of organizations in the fast food industry do not make use of real-time monitoring of system and network activity.

The statistic that 70% of organizations in the fast food industry do not make use of real-time monitoring of system and network activity implies that a significant majority of companies within this sector are not actively monitoring their technological infrastructure for potential issues or threats as they happen. This lack of real-time monitoring can leave these organizations vulnerable to cyber attacks, system failures, or other disruptions that could have negative impacts on their operations, customer experience, and data security. Implementing real-time monitoring systems could help fast food companies proactively identify and address any issues in their systems, ultimately improving their overall cybersecurity stance and operational efficiency.

It’s reported that one in three consumers won’t visit a restaurant if it was recently hacked.

The statistic reported that one in three consumers, or approximately 33% of the population, indicated that they would choose not to visit a restaurant if it had recently experienced a hacking incident. This suggests a significant negative impact on consumer trust and perception of security when it comes to dining out. Such findings highlight the importance for restaurant businesses to invest in robust cybersecurity measures to protect their sensitive data and maintain their customers’ confidence. Understanding these consumer sentiments can help restaurant owners mitigate risks associated with cybersecurity threats and maintain a loyal customer base.

According to the National Restaurant Association, 61% of restaurants who experienced a data breach in 2019 were small businesses.

The statistic provided by the National Restaurant Association states that 61% of the restaurants that suffered a data breach in 2019 were classified as small businesses. This implies that a significant majority of data breaches within the restaurant industry impacted smaller establishments, rather than larger chain restaurants. This statistic is concerning as small businesses often have fewer resources and may not prioritize cybersecurity measures as much as larger corporations, making them more vulnerable to cyber threats. It highlights the importance for all businesses, regardless of size, to invest in robust data protection measures to safeguard sensitive information and prevent potential breaches.

Point of Sale (PoS) systems used in QSR industry continue to be the primary target of cyber attacks, providing about 64% of all stolen data.

The statistic suggests that Point of Sale (PoS) systems within the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry are a major focal point for cyber attacks, with approximately 64% of all stolen data originating from these systems. This highlights a significant vulnerability within the QSR industry, indicating that cyber criminals are specifically targeting PoS systems to access sensitive information. The high percentage of stolen data attributed to PoS systems underscores the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures and vigilance within the industry to safeguard customer data and prevent potential breaches. Companies operating in the QSR sector should prioritize strengthening their PoS systems’ security to mitigate the risk of cyber attacks and protect the integrity of their operations.

More than 52% of all cyber attacks against the restaurant industry happen via remote access.

The statistic that more than 52% of all cyber attacks against the restaurant industry happen via remote access indicates that over half of the breaches targeting restaurants involve unauthorized access to their systems or networks from a remote location. This highlights the vulnerability of the restaurant sector to cyber threats through channels such as remote desktop protocol (RDP) or virtual private networks (VPN), where cybercriminals can exploit weaknesses in security protocols to gain access and compromise sensitive data or systems. Restaurants should prioritize implementing robust security measures and monitoring remote access activities to mitigate the risk of cyber attacks and protect their customers’ information and business operations.

About 50% of QSR restaurants don’t have a written cybersecurity policy in place.

The statistic indicates that approximately half of Quick Service Restaurants (QSR) do not have a formal cybersecurity policy established. This implies that a significant portion of QSR establishments may be vulnerable to cyber threats and data breaches due to lack of clear guidelines and procedures for safeguarding their digital assets. Without a written cybersecurity policy, these restaurants may be more susceptible to attacks such as data theft, ransomware, or other cybercrimes. Establishing and implementing a cybersecurity policy can help protect sensitive information, reduce risks, and enhance the overall security posture of QSR restaurants in the face of increasing cyber threats in today’s digital landscape.

Phishing is the cause of about 90% of data breaches in the QSR industry.

The statistic indicates that phishing, a type of cyber attack that involves fraudulently obtaining sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and credit card details, is responsible for approximately 90% of data breaches within the Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) industry. This means that the majority of security incidents in QSR establishments are a result of employees or customers being tricked into revealing confidential information through deceptive emails, messages, or websites. This statistic highlights the significant threat that phishing poses to data security in the QSR sector, emphasizing the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures and employee training to mitigate the risks and protect sensitive information from falling into the hands of cybercriminals.

About 20% of QSR data breaches are caused by the negligence or misconduct of company insiders.

This statistic suggests that approximately 20% of data breaches in quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are the result of actions taken by employees or individuals within the company, rather than external factors such as hackers or cyberattacks. This highlights the importance of addressing internal security risks, such as employee training, access controls, and monitoring protocols, in addition to focusing on external threats. The statistic underscores the need for QSRs to implement effective cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and mitigate the risks associated with insider negligence or misconduct, ultimately safeguarding customer information and preserving the company’s reputation.

QR code scams have seen an increase in the restaurant industry by 15% in the last year.

The statistic indicates that incidents of QR code scams targeting the restaurant industry have risen by 15% over the past year. This implies that more fake or malicious QR codes are being used to deceive customers, potentially leading to financial losses or data breaches. The increase of 15% highlights a concerning trend of heightened vulnerability within the industry, warranting a closer look at security measures and customer education around identifying and verifying legitimate QR codes. It is essential for restaurants to take proactive steps to protect both their customers and their reputation from such fraudulent activities.

Around 70% of all payment breaches in 2019 occurred in the food service industry.

The statistic stating that around 70% of all payment breaches in 2019 occurred in the food service industry highlights a significant vulnerability within this specific sector. Payment breaches refer to unauthorized access to sensitive financial information, such as credit card details, resulting in potential financial losses for both businesses and customers. The high percentage of breaches in the food service industry suggests a pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to protect customer data and prevent fraudulent activities. Such data underscores the importance of implementing robust security protocols, including encryption technologies, employee training on cybersecurity best practices, and regular security audits, to safeguard payment processes and maintain customer trust in the industry.

Roughly 31% of customers would avoid a QSR for a month following a cyber attack.

This statistic indicates that approximately 31% of customers are inclined to avoid visiting a Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) for a month after the occurrence of a cyber attack targeting that establishment. This suggests a significant level of concern or lack of trust among consumers regarding the security and privacy of their information when it comes to QSRs in the aftermath of a cyber attack. Such avoidance behavior could have notable implications for the affected QSR in terms of revenue and customer retention, highlighting the importance for businesses in the food industry to prioritize cybersecurity measures to safeguard customer trust and loyalty.

A report by industry experts suggests that QSRs will increase their IT spend by an estimated 18% for maintaining cybersecurity.

The statistic indicates that quick-service restaurants (QSRs) are expected to boost their information technology (IT) expenditure by approximately 18% specifically for enhancing cybersecurity measures. This suggests that the industry recognizes the growing importance of protecting their digital assets and customer data from cyber threats such as hacking, data breaches, and malicious attacks. By investing more in cybersecurity, QSRs aim to strengthen their defense mechanisms, prevent security breaches, and safeguard their reputation and customer trust. This proactive approach aligns with the evolving digital landscape and the increasing reliance on technology within the QSR sector to ensure a secure and resilient IT infrastructure.

References

0. – https://www.www.restaurant.org

1. – https://www.www.statistics.com

2. – https://www.www.cyberscoop.com

3. – https://www.www.qsrmagazine.com

4. – https://www.www.ncr.com

5. – https://www.www.pingidentity.com

6. – https://www.www.npd.com

7. – https://www.www.helpnetsecurity.com

8. – https://www.hospitalitytech.com

9. – https://www.www.getronics.com

10. – https://www.threatpost.com

How we write our statistic reports:

We have not conducted any studies ourselves. Our article provides a summary of all the statistics and studies available at the time of writing. We are solely presenting a summary, not expressing our own opinion. We have collected all statistics within our internal database. In some cases, we use Artificial Intelligence for formulating the statistics. The articles are updated regularly.

See our Editorial Process.

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