As we flip the calendar to 2024, there has never been a more critical time to discuss cybersecurity. The rise of innovations like AI and ML means that cyberattacks will likely be more potent. So, whether you are a traveler or a small business start-up, staying abreast with the latest cybersecurity trends is vital. This will help you have adequate measures to keep several steps ahead of potential attacks.
Broad Adoption of AI in Threat Detection/Protection
2023 was the year of Artificial Intelligence, with generative AI tools such as ChatGPT and Google Bard making headlines. And as these tools become more competent, we expect to see broad adoption of AI tools in cybersecurity. Security experts will use this technology’s powerful capabilities to improve threat detection and offer effective ransomware defense. In short, AI’s capabilities to quickly discover potential attacks will make security specialists more reliable and effective in their duties.
New Era of Menacing Cyber Threats
Artificial Intelligence is a double-edged sword, providing immense benefits and dangerous drawbacks. Although this technology will make cybersecurity experts more effective, the same is true about cyber criminals. As it stands, AI technology is available to everyone, including the wrong hands. In 2024, cybercriminals will likely automate and scale up attacks boosted by AI’s large-scale production with minimal effort. These characters will also use AI to enhance their current attacks and create new attacks, such as deepfakes, to impersonate officials. The only trick may be to fight AI with AI.
Cloud Computing to the Rescue
Cybersecurity attacks may seem unstoppable for the moment. However, if properly implemented, cloud computing is a largely untapped sector that can provide an effective barrier against cyber threats.
Cybersecurity experts can collaborate with cloud professionals to provide individuals and organizations with resilient defense systems. For example, cloud professionals can supply cybersecurity experts with access and encryption control systems to configure and protect sensitive data. This can also make it easier for security professionals to monitor and act against potential cybersecurity threats.
Broad Adoption of Zero Trust Security Model
Zero trust architecture is a strategic cybersecurity approach that protects organizational data by eliminating trust. In other words, this cybersecurity system calls for continuous data validation at every interaction stage. While zero trust architecture has always been out of reach for most individuals and organizations, the current technological shift means more organizations will adopt practices like ID verification and micro-segmentation. This practice already exists in USA online casinos, where players must prove their identity and address before transacting. This eliminates malpractices like underage gambling, money laundering, and more.
Ransomware to Get More Personal
Cybersecurity researchers and experts warn that we should prepare for more targeted and conniving attacks in 2024. That’s because the days when hackers simply encrypt data and demand ransom are gone. In 2024, ransomware crooks will be more calculative with their stolen data. Even worse, these threat actors will shift their focus to the more vulnerable smaller businesses and individuals even as more countries pledge to stop paying ransoms. All in all, ransomware will experience a massive makeover this year.
Mainstream Cybersecurity Insurance
With cyber threats expected to grow in frequency and complexity, most organizations will make cybersecurity insurance a part of their risk management strategies this year.
These organizations will look to mitigate any financial losses associated with cyberattacks and data breaches. But just like any insurance policy, the cost of insuring organizational data will largely depend on the nature and size of the data. The good news is that there is no shortage of lower cybersecurity costs.
Blockchain Technology to Get Increased Recognition
In 2024, we expect blockchain technology to continue becoming more widespread, thanks to its ability to offer improved cybersecurity protection. Blockchain provides a robust decentralized ledger known for its strong security features like transparency, anonymity, and faster data transactions. Here is the thing: once data is recorded in a blockchain, you cannot manipulate it unless approved by the network. This feature will see blockchain widely used to protect sensitive data in industries like finance and healthcare.
Time to Learn Cyber Security Skills
With research showing that there is a hacked account every 39 seconds, cybersecurity is promising to be a hot topic this year. Also, organizations will use more than $10.5 trillion on cybersecurity by 2025. If you look at it from the brighter side, this might be the time to learn this new skill. The rampant cyber threats mean employers will hire more cybersecurity experts and people with knowledge to protect their computer networks and systems.
Below are some cybersecurity courses to consider studying this year:
- Certified Information Systems
- Risk Management for Cybersecurity
- Information Security Management Principles
- Data Privacy
- Risk & Compliance
These cybersecurity trends in 2024 are bound to strike more fear than hope. However, if organizations and individuals take proper security measures, we expect some negative trends to disappear. Be positive and proactive!
