Cybersecurity is one of the most fickle subjects around. You blink, and there are additional threats, security breaches, software updates, vulnerability patches… The list is endless. Yet, no matter how complicated it all gets, it behooves any business to have a dedicated team staying on top of it.
At the end of the day, cybercriminals are getting more and more sophisticated with each passing day, and if your data is exposed, it could result in catastrophic consequences, including:
- Operational downtime
- Loss of sensitive data
- Loss of trade secrets
- Ruined reputation
- Identity theft
- Punitive fees
- Regulatory reprimands
- Loss of customer trust
- Extensive and costly litigation
If your company doesn’t have a highly skilled team of information technology professionals, it would be good practice to reconsider your budget, or look for managed service providers (MSPs) who can work around the clock to keep your assets safe.
In addition, you should strive to — at a minimum — be aware of the most pressing trends, what they do, and how you can recognize them.
7 Cybersecurity Trends in 2022
While this is not exhaustive (and it will keep growing ad infinitum until the end of times), below are several examples of some of the biggest cybersecurity threats in 2022:
1. 5G Vulnerabilities
5G has brought faster internet speeds and a greater network capacity, increasing efficiencies across the board in a remote workforce. They’re also more secure than earlier versions of the technology. Due to all of its benefits, it’s become the tech of choice for Fortune 500 companies and government agencies. As such, highly skilled hackers see its infrastructure and end devices as attractive targets.
Some of the most vulnerable devices are IoT systems, as well as those that are connected to unsecured networks.
2. Supply Chain Attacks
Supply chain attacks are threats that target third-party vendors by injecting malicious code to a software application. In turn, the malware affects all of its users. To give you a better perspective of how wide scale this type of attack can be, think of popular Software as a Service (SaaS) applications and how many businesses would be affected if any of them was compromised. Every single user of the app would become infected as well.
3. Attack Surface
Attack surface refers to all of the endpoints from which a cyber criminal could gain access to a network, including laptops, pen drives, mobile devices, and other types of hardware. They are usually achieved by traditional methods, such as phishing scams, viruses, and malware. Guessing weak passwords is one of the most popular ways to get access to these devices. Another one is finding unpatched vulnerabilities in operating systems — which highlights the need to install software updates as soon as they become available.
4. Ransomware as a Service (RaaS)
Cybercriminals who aren’t as skilled at developing ransomware can pay to subscribe to Ransomware as a Service (RaaS). Since this type of service is developed with malicious intent, users can typically only find it in the dark web. And just as with traditional SaaS software, those paying for the service can log into a portal and verify whether an infection has been successful, the number of stolen files, and whether the victims have submitted any ransom payments.
5. Synthetic Identities
Synthetic identities occur when cybercriminals steal sensitive data of real people (such as names, social security numbers, and dates of birth) to commit fraud. It may take a while to be detected, since they often take the credentials of people who don’t often use their credit, or who haven’t used it for extended periods of time. Typical examples include children, disabled, or individuals who have recently passed away.
6. Critical National Infrastructure (CNI)
Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) are government assets and data they need to run their countries. This includes all components relating to roadways, public utilities, emergency services, national defense, and anything else that’s essential for the efficient functioning of a society. They are categorized based on sectors, such as communications, manufacturing, financial, healthcare, transportation, etc… Therefore, ensuring adequate cybersecurity is crucial to ensure public safety and economic stability.
As such, they are vulnerable to foreign attacks from entities with an interest in debilitating national security.
7. Geo Targeted Phishing Scams
Geo targeted phishing attacks occur when cybercriminals narrow down whom they want to target. They then design their scam in a way that would be most effective based on their intended audience. They use location language, industry jargon, and brand voice to seem as legitimate as possible. And due to this level of detail, they are more difficult to identify than traditional phishing attacks.
Cyber Security Solutions
While all of the above mentioned cybersecurity threats are certainly worrisome, there are also cutting-edge technologies that can help you ensure the safety of your networks and data.
Machine Learning
Machine learning analyzes patterns within your network and deploy the necessary countermeasures to prevent cyberattacks. And since it all occurs automatically, the process is faster and more effective than waiting for an IT person to come across a reason to suspect something is amiss.
Real Time Monitoring
The only way to keep data secure is to monitor it around the clock, in real time. And this type of risk management entails a lot more than simply keeping an eye out for suspicious activity. It also runs vulnerability scans on a regular basis, stores log in data from all devices, and ensures you’re complying with all industry standards, as well as state and federal regulations.
Security as a Service
Security as a Service (SECaaS) refers to implementing cybersecurity measures through cloud-based services instead of physically installing antivirus software on your devices. It’s all outsourced, and it addresses common security concerns, such as data loss prevention and intrusion detection. It’s a practical solution that offers greater accessibility and easier scalability.
Continuous Employee Training
This one should be highlighted and repeated regularly. No matter how great your managed cybersecurity services are, you could still be exposed to security threats if your teams aren’t adequately trained. Hold workshops and provide materials teaching them how to identify potential issues. Implement password security measures, multi-factor authentication, avoiding connecting to unsecured networks, updating software, your backup and recovery plans, and whom to contact if they suspect any problems.
Get Custom Cybersecurity Solutions With Compuquip
For over 40 years, we’ve been providing technology and cybersecurity solutions worldwide. We fully manage cybersecurity, as well as educate your employees on how to best keep your data protected.
Our highly skilled and experienced are certified with a long list of cybersecurity credentials, and we can help you design the best solutions that are specific to your business needs.
Contact us and let’s talk about how we can keep your networks secure.