Following the tragic killing of UnitedHealthcare executive Brian Thompson in Manhattan, demand for corporate security services surged as firms were inundated with calls.
In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in targeted attacks, both online and offline, on executives and their families. This trend is particularly prevalent in the health care, biomedical, and pharmaceutical industries. The ease of access to executives’ personal information through digital platforms and the amplification of threats on social media have heightened the risks faced by corporate leaders.
The tragic shooting of Brian Thompson, the chief executive of UnitedHealthcare, has further highlighted the need for increased security measures for executives. Prior to this incident, there were reports of threats and violent acts targeting board members and executives of prominent companies. These incidents have raised alarm bells among business leaders, prompting them to take proactive steps to ensure the safety of their top executives.
To address these growing security concerns, businesses are ramping up their spending on executive protection. According to Equilar, an executive compensation research firm, the median amount spent on executive security by S&P 500 companies has doubled from 2021 to 2023. This increased investment in security measures reflects the escalating threats faced by corporate leaders in today’s digital age.
Chris Pierson, the CEO of BlackCloak, a digital executive protection firm, emphasizes the importance of assessing threats based on the severity of harm, the likelihood of an attack, and the capabilities of the individual making the threat. With the proliferation of online threats, companies and security firms must dedicate resources to effectively evaluate and respond to potential risks faced by executives.
In conclusion, the safety and security of executives in the health care, biomedical, and pharmaceutical industries are under growing threat. The tragic events of recent years have underscored the need for heightened vigilance and proactive security measures to protect corporate leaders and their families. By investing in executive protection and adopting a comprehensive risk assessment approach, businesses can mitigate the risks posed by targeted attacks and ensure the safety of their top executives.
Source: The NY Times
