What Cybersecurity Attack Trends Should You Watch Out for in 2023?
As we embark on a new year filled with possibilities, it's crucial to fortify our defenses against the escalating threat of cyberattacks. A staggering 68% of business leaders acknowledge the worsening landscape of cybersecurity risks, driven by the increasing sophistication of attacks orchestrated by large criminal organizations. In 2021 alone, global cyberattacks rose by 15.1%, underscoring the urgency for businesses to stay ahead of evolving threats.
Attack Trends to Monitor:
Vulnerabilities in 5G Devices:
The advent of 5G technology brings unprecedented speed to the internet, but it also presents a prime target for cybercriminals. Routers, mobile devices, and PCs leveraging 5G hardware may have inherent code vulnerabilities that hackers seek to exploit. Mitigate this risk by prioritizing devices with robust firmware security and questioning manufacturers about their security measures during the purchasing process.
One-time Password (OTP) Bypass Techniques:
A concerning trend involves bypassing multi-factor authentication (MFA), a reliable defense against unauthorized access. Hackers employ various tactics, including reusing tokens, sharing unused tokens, leveraging leaked tokens, and exploiting password reset functions through phishing. Businesses must remain vigilant by implementing additional security layers and educating users about potential threats.
Exploiting World Events:
Criminal hacking groups capitalize on global events and disasters, with cyberattack volumes soaring by 600% during the pandemic. Phishing campaigns related to events such as natural disasters or geopolitical crises are rampant, preying on distracted individuals through social engineering tactics. Awareness and skepticism are essential defenses against falling victim to these scams.
Smishing & Mobile Device Attacks:
With mobile devices ubiquitous in our lives, cybercriminals increasingly target them through SMS-based phishing (smishing). Fake messages, resembling shipping notices or receipts, can easily lead to account breaches with a single click. The rise of mobile malware underscores the importance of robust mobile anti-malware and additional protective measures, such as DNS filters.
AI & Machine Learning-Powered Phishing:
Phishing attacks have evolved, making them harder to detect. Criminal groups leverage AI and machine learning to create phishing emails that mimic authentic brand communications, personalized to deceive recipients. This heightened sophistication allows hackers to target more victims with precision and efficiency. Businesses should enhance email security protocols and educate employees to recognize and report potential phishing attempts.
Conclusion: To stay ahead of cyber threats in 2023, businesses must remain proactive. Regular cybersecurity check-ups are crucial for evaluating and reinforcing defense mechanisms. Don't wait to discover vulnerabilities the hard way; schedule a cybersecurity check-up today and stay a step ahead of digital criminals.
Article used with permission from The Technology Press.
