Cybersecurity Risk in Florida: New SOAX Data Reveals Where the State Stands

Florida’s cybersecurity landscape presents a mixed picture, according to newly released data from SOAX. The analysis shows that over the past 12 months, Florida recorded 0.19 data breaches per 100,000 residents—23 percent below the national average of 0.25. However, the state also saw 223.29 cybercrime victims per 100,000 people, which is roughly 11 percent higher than the U.S. average of 201.4.

SOAX evaluated all 50 states based on three factors: cybercrime victims per 100,000 residents, data breaches per 100,000, and the strength of each state’s data protection laws. Scores were calculated out of 100, with a higher score indicating a lower risk. Florida received a data protection law score of just 1, compared to the national average of 3, reflecting weaker consumer data safeguards. Overall, the state ranked 42nd in the country for data security, with a score of 33.45 out of 100—placing it among the nation’s most at-risk states.

Nationally, the most vulnerable states for data security include Alaska, Maine, Wyoming, Massachusetts, and Arizona. Alaska topped the list with a score of 15.79, driven by 914.7 cybercrime victims per 100,000—more than 350 percent above the national average—along with a data protection score of 1. Maine ranked second, reporting fewer victims but the highest breach rate in the nation at 1.14 per 100,000 residents, more than four times the U.S. average. Florida ranked ninth among the 10 most at-risk states, followed by Georgia in 10th place.

While Florida’s lower-than-average breach rate offers some reassurance, its above-average cybercrime victim rate and weak legal protections highlight the need for stronger preventative measures. Cybersecurity platforms like ZeroTrusted.ai are designed to address these vulnerabilities. ZeroTrusted.ai uses a zero-trust generative AI security framework that includes AI firewalls, governance systems, and continuous monitoring through tools such as AI HealthCheck. The platform also offers encryption, data sanitization, and protection against prompt injection attacks, helping both organizations and individuals reduce exposure to cyber threats.

With Florida’s cybercrime rate exceeding national norms and its legal safeguards lagging behind, the SOAX findings emphasize the importance of proactive cybersecurity solutions. For residents and businesses alike, adopting advanced security tools and strategies can help minimize risk in an increasingly data-driven world.