Cyber-security 2024: Alert!

Welcome to 2024, a year where digital advancement continues its relentless expansion.? This New Year will see AI continue to evolve and create new and exciting opportunities.?? ?

But also dangerous threats.

Cyber-crime doesn't take a break, and neither should your organization. This year is expected to bring significant developments in AI risks, digital blackmail, mobile threats, and with them the necessity for advanced security technology.

As 2024 unfolds, the Cyber threat landscape is poised to confront three predominant threats.

1.???? Emerging Threats in Artificial Intelligence

First is the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the danger that its rapid development will further open avenues for sophisticated scams and vulnerabilities.?

The vast reservoirs of personal data online, particularly on social networks, provide fertile ground for AI-driven bots.?? These sophisticated crawlers are capable of crafting highly convincing social media content, potentially deceiving and scamming users. As AI becomes integrated into new devices and services, it may unintentionally open up security vulnerabilities, presenting new opportunity for hackers.???

Adding to the complexity is the advancement of AI in the creation of realistic images, audio and ‘Deepfake’ videos.? Once a novelty (remember when the first AI generated art was little more than rudimentary blobs) this technology now poses significant risks, especially in the corporate sector, where it could be used to impersonate trusted figures and manipulate information.? Just tune into the 2019 TV Series ‘The Capture’ for a gripping illustration of fake news and media manipulation.

2.???? Digital Blackmail

In 2024, digital blackmail will be a significant concern, with ransomware remaining a highly profitable method for cyber-criminals.?? These malicious actors are setting their sights on higher-value targets, employing unique and sophisticated methods to ensnare their victims.

As companies increasingly rely on cloud-based infrastructure and remote working solutions, these platforms are becoming prime targets for hackers seeking access to sensitive company or employee information.

Expect cyber-criminals to explore more creative avenues of extortion, including the use of falsified images and other digital manipulations enable by advanced AI technologies.?

3.???? Mobile Security Challenge

The landscape of mobile security in 2024 is facing rapidly evolving threats, as the ubiquity of smartphones makes them increasingly attractive targets for cyber criminals. One area of concern is the surge of instant loan apps, which not only exploit users with high fees but also pose risks of data theft and resale. Another emerging threat is the proliferation of fake chat apps, cleverly designed with hidden spyware or crypto-stealing malware. These deceptive apps often trick users into granting extensive permissions, further compromising their security.

Additionally, with the robust security measures of official mobile app stores, cyber-criminals are expected to pivot more towards web-based attacks. Phishing and other similar tactics are likely to become more prevalent in infecting mobile devices, as these methods circumvent the security protocols of app marketplaces. This shift underscores a growing reliance on web-based strategies to exploit mobile users, marking a significant change in the approach to mobile cybersecurity.

Cyber-crime never rests

Nor should your organization!

The real power lies in being prepared and proactive. To help you stay ahead of cyber risks for 2024 have a look at my info-graphic below for actionable insights into securing your digital world against the top cybersecurity challenges of this year. Make 2024 a year of good digital security!

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