As Bermuda solidifies its position as a global hub for financial services and technology innovation, the need for strong cybersecurity measures becomes increasingly urgent. The rising frequency and sophistication of cyberthreats require businesses to adopt best practices to safeguard their operations and sensitive data. While regulatory frameworks are important, the onus should also fall on both businesses and the insurance sector to proactively enforce cybersecurity standards, similar to the successful models we see in fire safety and building codes.

Drawing parallels: cybersecurity and fire safety

For decades, the insurance industry has been a key player in improving fire safety by working closely with regulators and enforcing standards for building codes and fire prevention systems. Businesses that met these requirements benefited from reduced premiums, while those that did not were penalised financially. As a result, fire-related incidents in the United States dropped by more than 55 per cent, from more than three million annually in the late 1970s to only 1.3 million in 2021.

The lesson here is clear: regulations alone are insufficient. Financial incentives and proactive business engagement are crucial for encouraging the widespread adoption of safety standards. This same approach can revolutionise cybersecurity in Bermuda.

The role of insurance in cybersecurity best practices

Cyberthreats are evolving rapidly, from ransomware and phishing attacks to complex data breaches. Yet, many businesses — both large and small — continue to overlook even basic security measures such as multi-factor authentication or regular software updates. This is often owing to cost concerns, complacency or a lack of regulatory urgency.

The insurance industry is uniquely positioned to turn this tide. Just as insurers once required businesses to install fire alarms and sprinkler systems before issuing coverage, they can now offer reduced premiums for companies that adopt rigorous cybersecurity best practices. These could include:

• Installing firewalls and encryption protocols

• Conducting regular employee training on cyber hygiene

• Performing frequent vulnerability assessments

By tying insurance policies to cybersecurity standards, businesses are not just incentivised to comply; they are financially rewarded. This model ensures that cybersecurity becomes a business priority, mitigating financial losses and creating a culture of digital security across Bermuda's commercial landscape.

Capitalising on Bermuda’s insurance expertise

Bermuda’s robust insurance and reinsurance sector is perfectly positioned to lead this cybersecurity shift. The island has a long history of innovation in risk management and could apply the same expertise to establishing a strong cybersecurity framework. By setting baseline security standards and offering reduced premiums to companies that comply, Bermuda’s insurers could create a safer digital environment, both locally and globally.

This approach has already proved successful elsewhere. For instance, General Data Protection Regulation in Europe — and soon the Personal Information Protection Act in Bermuda — prompted businesses to adopt stronger data protection practices. In the US, sectors such as energy and healthcare are beginning to see insurance incentives tied to cybersecurity measures. Bermuda, with its reputation for financial innovation, can be at the forefront of this global shift.

Expanding impact beyond Bermuda

Bermuda’s influence in the global financial sector means that the standards set here will have far-reaching consequences. As global reinsurers and multinational corporations headquartered on the island adopt these cybersecurity measures, it could pave the way for worldwide adoption of similar insurance-led models.

For smaller Bermudian businesses, these incentives can help to offset the perceived high cost of cybersecurity implementation, making best practices more accessible and affordable. This shift not only protects individual companies but also strengthens Bermuda’s overall economic resilience against cyberthreats.

A call to action for businesses and insurers

The time is ripe for Bermuda’s businesses and insurers to collaborate in shaping a cybersecurity-first future. Just as the insurance industry was instrumental in transforming fire safety, it can now lead the way in digital risk management. By aligning regulatory frameworks with insurance incentives, we can foster a culture where cybersecurity is prioritised, businesses are financially motivated to adopt best practices, and Bermuda’s economy is safeguarded against rising cyberthreats.

Now is the moment for action. By working together, insurers, regulators and businesses can ensure that Bermuda becomes a global leader in cybersecurity, much like it already is in financial services and risk management.

• Gilbert A. Darrell is the chief executive of Rize Technologies, a Bermudian-based IT and cybersecurity firm serving clients across the United States, Canada, Bermuda and the Caribbean. With more than 20 years of experience working with Fortune 500 companies such as Microsoft, Siemens and Walmart, he specialises in delivering cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions, network management and IT infrastructure