Cybersecurity is now one of the fundamental pillars of corporate and individual management. However, the escalation of sophistication of cyber threats that we are witnessing is not taken seriously enough by many companies. Many neglect proper management of their digital assets, because they tend to trust them as they used to trust industrial machines. 

Unfortunately, it has become mandatory to have a complete overview of cybersecurity threats.

In this short article we will see the most known and most dangerous ones of 2024.

Recent Evolutions in Cybersecurity Threats

In recent years, the cyber threat landscape has undergone a radical transformation. It is no longer just about traditional malware, but more complex and often targeted attacks. 

With the introduction of theartificial intelligence (IA) and the increase of theInternet of Things (IoT), the exposed flanks have increased. 

Among the most relevant threats of 2024 we have:

1) Ransomware

Ransomware remains one of the most pervasive threats. 

The new variants are designed to evade advanced defenses and can shut down entire systems in minutes. 

The most widespread strategy is that of "double extortion", or multiple blackmail, where not only is data blocked, but the publication of sensitive information is also threatened.

2) Supply chain attacks

Supply chain attacks allow you to go from the supplier to multiple customers. They are insidious and mostly depend on the quality of the software, and in some cases the human factor. 

3) Deepfakes

Using artificial intelligence to generate fake videos, audio, or images presents a new challenge for cybersecurity. Deepfakes can fool recognition systems and facilitate sophisticated scams, such as social engineering and identity theft.

4) Phishing is increasingly powerful

Phishing, the technique of stealing credentials through fake messages, continues to evolve. 

Of particular concern is spear-phishing, which targets specific targets and provides detailed information about the victim.

5) The weak points of IoT

The Internet of Things It is an asset but also a risk, if poorly managed. As IoT devices become more widespread, so does vulnerability, as hackers can use these devices to create "botnets" (networks of compromised devices) or to access sensitive information.

How to protect your digital assets

A first suggestion is to adopt artificial intelligence systems for defense. Machine learning algorithms can analyze attack patterns to anticipate new threats and respond automatically and promptly.

Regular data backup is also a fundamental protection measure: creating backup copies in isolated environments reduces the risk of data loss and allows for rapid recovery in the event of an attack, through a well-orchestrated disaster recovery plan. 

It is also essential to train your employees, eliminating human weakness from the equation. Among the types of authentication, it is always better to favor the Two Factors (2FA) and Zero Trust Systems. 

Cybersecurity Trends Recorded in 2024

At the end of the year it is time to take stock. Some trends that have emerged or consolidated in 2024 are:

• Cybersecurity Mesh: A decentralized approach that allows you to protect data wherever it is located, improving the flexibility and adaptability of security measures.
• Cloud-Native Asset Protection: With the growth of cloud-native platforms, it is essential to develop cloud-specific security tools. These include identity management, data protection, and real-time access control.
• Predictive SafetyUsing predictive analytics to identify and anticipate threats based on historical attack patterns enables organizations to prevent potential attacks before they occur.
• Blockchain for Cybersecurity: Blockchain offers an advanced level of security due to its decentralized nature and immutable record of transactions. It is used to prevent data tampering and ensure transparency in authentication and control systems.

Advice for Businesses: How to Support Secure Innovation

Beyond the theoretical considerations, the time has come for companies to put these concepts into practice. 

How to do?

Who to trust?

What innovations are really necessary and where is the line between necessity and paranoia?

To protect themselves effectively in 2024, companies must adopt an innovation- and prevention-oriented mindset. It is essential to consider cybersecurity as an integral part of their business strategy, rather than an additional cost or an afterthought. Investing in research, training, and advanced technologies allows for proactive security that can evolve with the threat landscape. 

Pizero Design is at your side in the process of improving your company's cybersecurity.

Contact us for an initial orientation consultation!