As AI takes centre stage in 2025, businesses are embracing new technologies to streamline workflows and enhance efficiency. Email remains the backbone of workplace communication, with over 90% of employees considering it essential to their daily work. However, its widespread use comes with significant risks that many businesses may be underestimating.
The hidden risks of outbound email
When it comes to email security, most IT leaders focus on inbound threats like phishing, with 47% of those we surveyed in a recent study ranking it as their top concern. This is warranted given the impact these inbound attacks have on business continuity and customer trust. However, the same research revealed an even bigger challenge: outbound security breaches.
Often overlooked, these incidents—frequently caused by human error—can lead to more data leaks than external threats. People make mistakes, and a simple misaddressed email or incorrect attachment can have serious consequences with more than 50% of employees admitting they make email-related mistakes every few months, and only 34% reported formally, the risk remains substantial.
Compliance on its own is not enough – awareness is key
Compliance regulations dictate the need for robust security processes, but simply having policies in place is not enough. Organizations must go a step further—proactively identifying risks and implementing solutions to reduce human error.
Regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA and ISO/IEC emphasise email security as a part of wider risk management strategies. Even with compliance regulations being set, the issues surrounding still stand. Our report shows that 73% of employees are aware of their security policies yet only 52% of them choose to consistently follow them.
This compliance gap poses a serious challenge. Without active engagement from employees, businesses leave themselves vulnerable to preventable security incidents. Creating a culture of awareness—where employees recognise the risks and take responsibility for email security—is critical in reducing exposure to costly breaches.
How to stay ahead
A balanced approach that combines employee vigilance with smart technology is key to strengthening email security. Organizations must address both inbound and outbound threats, ensuring employees are equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to avoid mistakes.
Employees must see their role in protecting company data and be diligent when handling sensitive information; double-checking recipients, reviewing attachments, and using CC and BCC appropriately. Without the right safeguards in place, these everyday errors could result in financial penalties, reputational damage, and loss of customer trust.
AI-powered security solutions can play a vital role, flagging sensitive attachments, verifying recipients, and preventing misdirected emails before they happen. These technologies not only enhance security but also improve workflow efficiency, allowing employees to follow best practices without disrupting productivity.
The bottom line
Email security isn’t just an IT issue—it’s a business-critical concern. Without a well-structured security framework, organizations risk data loss, compliance violations, and reputational damage.
With email threats continuing to evolve, businesses must rethink their security strategies. Protecting against cybercriminals is crucial but so is preventing costly in-house mistakes. By investing in intelligent security solutions and fostering a culture of awareness, organizations can strengthen their defences and build greater trust in their email communications.
Our latest research investigates escalating threats and compliance pressures facing organizations today. Read the report.
