Here are Some Cybersecurity Trends to Watch for in 2024
If we are to protect our data against cyber-attacks, we must make Cybersecurity Awareness a priority and part of our everyday practice. Attacks continue to rise, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a common practice for stealing personal and organizational data. January 28th is National Data Privacy Day in the United States. Let’s make cyber hygiene a practice best starting today. Now is the time to educate yourselves on the latest trends in cybersecurity. In 2024, it will be more important than ever to protect yourself and your organization against attacks.
AI-Based Predictors
AI's cybersecurity role will continue to grow to include an uptick in automated responses and predictive analytics. These analytics make predictions about future outcomes using historical data combined with statistical modeling. Companies use these results to locate patterns. The emerging trend solidifies the need to perform AI risk assessments.
Election Year Disinformation
The upcoming election comes with concerns due to the current political climate. Cyberattacks from foreign interference and those seeking to undermine confidence and doubt results will increase. Adversaries will use social engineering to disseminate disinformation during campaigns. Cybercriminals around the world will utilize political divisions to focus their cyber-attacks.
Increase in Ransomware Attacks
According to Tech Accelerator, we can expect ransomware threats to continue (Kerner, 2024). The financial implications of ransomware have also increased over the last several years. Attackers focus on supply chains, resulting in widespread damage compared to a singular attack.
Phishing
If you have yet to hear about phishing, where have you been? Phishing occurs when people receive an email from some company or person they know. The email suggests their data is compromised and provides further instructions. When they comply, the hackers immediately attack. Although the email looked legitimate, do not trust it. The phishing lure is designed to wreak havoc on your computer, allowing hackers to destroy or steal your data by gaining access to your network. After it has control, it will lock your system and demand a ransom.
Vishing
We have all experienced it, Vishing. Voice phishing or Vishing happens when people call you over the phone to entice you to give out sensitive information or act urgently about a particular act. This results in an attacker grabbing the information for their nefarious deeds.
Smishing
Smishing can be described as difficult to recognize because text messages do not provide as much detail as emails. It could come from your bank or other entities you use. It might use enticing language like you are a winner or you received a prize, but don't be fooled. Be suspicious of all email and text messages. Going directly to the company's website or app would be best instead of clicking on a link.
Whaling
Whaling occurs when a fish, classified as a CEO, president, or other senior leadership position of any company, is targeted for their data by hackers because of their access to information such as financial, HR, and other files. Whaling focuses on one or more senior-level employees.
Pharming
Pharming is a term you may need to familiarize yourself with. It can happen if your computer is infected, or your server is corrupt. This breakdown in your computer's health can allow the computer to be redirected and sent to a browser where cyber attackers capture your information. Make sure to keep your anti-virus software updated.
Finally, you are the best defense against a cyberattack. Remain abreast of the latest trends not just for your organization but for your personal information as well. You will not only save yourself the trouble of navigating through the recovery process from being hacked, but you could also prevent the loss of employment and finances.