a woman working on a laptop

Cyber risks can be complex. To fully protect yourself against the wide range of potential threats, it’s important to have the right combination of Directors & Officers (D&O) and cyber insurance.

Creating combined coverage has many advantages, including the potential for cost savings and simplified policy management.

What is cyber coverage?

Cyber coverage is a type of insurance that provides protection from losses related to a cyber incident, such as a data breach or ransomware attack.

Cyber incidents can have a far-reaching impact and take a long time to resolve. They can also result in significant financial losses and reputational damage, which is why it’s essential to have the right insurance coverage in place.

What is D&O insurance?

Directors & Officers insurance, commonly referred to as D&O insurance, provides a company’s executive leadership with protection from personal financial loss if they are named as defendants in a litigation due to actions taken or decisions made while leading and/or managing the business.

D&O insurance typically covers legal fees, investigation costs, and settlements or judgments, depending on the specific policy language.

Understanding the differences: D&O insurance versus cyber insurance

Cyber and D&O insurance are distinct types of coverage. While cyber insurance protects a business in the event of a cyber incident, D&O insurance protects individual executives and their personal assets if sued for mismanagement, breach of duty or other related acts.

Cyber insurance does not protect an executive’s personal assets, and D&O insurance does not protect a business from losses resulting from a cyber attack. Combining these coverages can ensure companies and their leaders have more complete protection from risk.

Understanding the differences: D&O insurance versus cyber insurance

Combining cyber insurance with D&O coverage provides more comprehensive protection from multiple risks that often overlap. The benefits of this layered coverage may include:

  • Customized, flexible protection for unique insurance needs
  • Cost-effectiveness
  • Fewer coverage gaps
  • More efficient claims handling
  • Expertise of an insurance professional to help reduce exposure

Speak to your agent about D&O and cyber insurance coverage options

Today, cyber risks and executive management decisions are often intertwined. By securing both cyber insurance and D&O coverage, your company and its executives can benefit from comprehensive business protections and risk management strategies.

Small Business Icon
Learn more about Nationwide business insurance Talk to a specialist  

The information included here is designed for informational purposes only. It is not legal, tax, financial or any other sort of advice, nor is it a substitute for such advice. The information may not apply to your specific situation. We have tried to make sure the information is accurate, but it could be outdated or even inaccurate in parts. It is the reader’s responsibility to comply with any applicable local, state or federal regulations. Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company, its affiliates and their employees make no warranties about the information nor guarantee of results, and they assume no liability in connection with the information provided.