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Cyber Risk Exposure from Third-party Asset Managers: What You Need to Know

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Over the past few years, cyber risk has gained prominence on the agenda of institutional investors, and it is a rapidly evolving issue. While much of the media attention to cybersecurity breaches has focused on incidents where large volumes of personal information have been stolen (such as social security numbers or credit card information), cyber risks exist even within organizations that do not typically handle large volumes of personal data. These risks can include phishing scams, ransomware attacks, or other network breaches.

In this white paper, we focus on some of the cyber risks associated with multi-manager portfolios—specifically those to which institutional investors are exposed by using third-party asset managers.

In particular, we consider the following:

  • Types of cyber risks that may be present;
  • Steps that can be taken to help mitigate these risks; and
  • Aon’s approach to assessing third-party investment managers’ cybersecurity controls, policies, and procedures.

This piece focuses on cyber risks from outside investment managers. We recognize that many institutional investors, such as the plan administrators for pension plans, are also exposed to cyber risks. That is beyond the scope of this piece, although Aon has the capabilities to develop solutions in these areas.

To learn more, download the full whitepaper above. 


Disclaimer

This document has been produced by Aon’s Global Investment Center (GIC), a division of Aon plc, and is appropriate solely for institutional investors. Nothing in this document should be treated as an authoritative statement of the law on any particular aspect or in any specific case. It should not be taken as financial advice and action should not be taken as a result of this document alone. Consultants will be pleased to answer questions on its contents but cannot give individual financial advice. Individuals are recommended to seek independent financial advice in respect of their own personal circumstances. The information contained herein is given as of the date hereof and does not purport to give information as of any other date. The delivery at any time shall not, under any circumstances, create any implication that there has been a change in the information set forth herein since the date hereof or any obligation to update or provide amendments hereto. The information contained herein is derived from proprietary and non-proprietary sources deemed by Aon to be reliable and are not necessarily all inclusive. Aon does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information and cannot be held accountable for inaccurate data provided by third parties. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the reader.

This document does not constitute an offer of securities or solicitation of any kind and may not be treated as such, i) in any jurisdiction where such an offer or solicitation is against the law; ii) to anyone to whom it is unlawful to make such an offer or solicitation; or iii) if the person making the offer or solicitation is not qualified to do so. If you are unsure as to whether the investment products and services described within this document are suitable for you, we strongly recommend that you seek professional advice from a financial adviser registered in the jurisdiction in which you reside. We have not considered the suitability and/or appropriateness of any investment you may wish to make with us. It is your responsibility to be aware of and to observe all applicable laws and regulations of any relevant jurisdiction, including the one in which you reside.

Aon Hewitt Limited is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registered in England & Wales No. 4396810. When distributed in the US, Aon Hewitt Investment Consulting, Inc. (“AHIC”) is a registered investment adviser with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). AHIC is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Aon plc. In Canada, Aon Hewitt Inc. and Aon Hewitt Investment Management Inc. (“AHIM”) are indirect subsidiaries of Aon plc, a public company trading on the NYSE. Investment advice to Canadian investors is provided through AHIM, a portfolio manager, investment fund manager and exempt market dealer registered under applicable Canadian securities laws. Regional distribution and contact information are provided below. Contact your local Aon representative for contact information relevant to your local country if not included below.

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USA

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Toronto, ON
M5V 3M2
Canada

Copyright © 2019 Aon plc


About Aon

Aon plc (NYSE:AON) is a leading global professional services firm providing a broad range of risk, retirement and health solutions. Our 50,000 colleagues in 120 countries empower results for clients by using proprietary data and analytics to deliver insights that reduce volatility and improve performance.

The information contained herein and the statements expressed are of a general nature and are not intended to address the circumstances of any particular individual or entity. Although we endeavor to provide accurate and timely information and use sources we consider reliable, there can be no guarantee that such information is accurate as of the date it is received or that it will continue to be accurate in the future. No one should act on such information without appropriate professional advice after a thorough examination of the particular situation.
Copyright 2019 Aon plc