As we step into 2024, the cybersecurity landscape is more dynamic and challenging than ever. Reflecting on the lessons learned from the tumultuous year of 2023, we anticipate a year that demands heightened vigilance and innovative strategies to counter emerging threats.
Advanced Ransomware, AI, and Social Engineering:
Cybercriminals are expected to leverage generative AI tools to create realistic emails, phone calls, and video content that can hide more effectively from tools used to reveal risks. Social engineering campaigns are expected to grow this year at alarming rates and the sophisticated use of AI will empower entry-level hackers to new heights, posing a significant threat to organizations' cybersecurity efforts. Businesses need to stay ahead with advanced security systems, security trainings, and zero-trust policies and procedures that protect the organization and its client base.
Human Resources Risk Management:
Enterprises are shifting their focus towards human risk management, identifying employees with high-risk scores to tailor security awareness trainings and programs that educate employees on how to protect the business. Recognizing anomalous behavior within systems and networks becomes paramount, reflecting a move beyond mere trust in employees to a proactive identification of potential threats.
With the continued prevalence of remote work, cybercriminals will target vulnerabilities in VPNs, cloud services, and RDPs. The expanded attack surface demands a proactive approach to addressing software and hardware updates, secured Wi-Fi, VPN connections, and cloud security.
Attacks on Third-Party Suppliers:
As demonstrated in 2023, threat actors will escalate attacks on third-party software and hardware providers, seeking new opportunities to exploit businesses alike. Some regulatory agencies are requiring organizations to prioritize third-party cybersecurity audits to ensure that security is upheld at all stages of the supply chain.
Exploiting IoT & Mobile Devices:
The proliferation of connected IoT devices, coupled with poor security features, makes them attractive targets for hackers. Mitigating the potential for large-scale botnets requires addressing the security vulnerabilities inherent in these devices and their accessibility to the network and data.
Mobile devices also face increased attacks towards operating systems, apps, and emerging 5G networks. Organizations need to enhance their defense mechanisms, utilizing built-in device features, MFA, and other tools to defend against compromise.
Identity Theft and Financial Fraud:
Cybercriminals are expected to combine stolen data to create comprehensive dossiers for identity theft and financial fraud. Artificial Intelligence will likely play a major role in orchestrating more advanced attacks, posing a significant challenge for cybersecurity experts and the businesses they protect.
Increased Cyberwarfare:
When fake and malicious content is created and distributed by cybercriminals, it leads to complex cyber conflicts with global implications. Geopolitical tensions may escalate leading to further hostility and warfare between nations. Complications can even arise internally as we’ve seen in the past, and it further boosts our need for security and awareness.
As quantum computers advance, the potential to break current cryptographic algorithms looms. Organizations are urged to prepare for a post-quantum cryptography world, aligning with the convergence of AI and quantum computing.
Conclusion:
While the cybersecurity landscape in 2024 presents unprecedented challenges, there is hope for change and resilience. Organizations must remain proactive, embracing innovative strategies to counter emerging threats and secure a future where technology and security coexist harmoniously.
To learn more, view our post about the 10 reasons why businesses hire an IT MSP to protect their business and clients from cybercriminals.
