The Corona pandemic radically changed the business landscape by forcing the digitalization of several business sectors. Consequently,  this rapid shift made many sectors vulnerable to cyber attacks as most didn’t have a robust measure of securing their digital space. Below is an in-depth look at challenges and solutions to cyber threats and the prediction of new software threats in 2024.

Challenges to cybersecurity that came into the spotlight in 2024

Several cyber security threats mark the year 2024. Let’s take an in-depth look at some of these challenges.

• Increase in ransomware (RaaS) attacks

Ransomware attacks have been on the rise because of the introduction of Ransom as a service (RaaS). RaaS is when a programmer makes a ransomware program which they then sell on the dark web. The buyers (affiliates) then launch the malware in a company’s network and get access to data/files which they only release once certain demands are met.

This type of hacking is popular and dangerous because even someone with limited technical skills in hacking can buy these programs and launch them.

• Rise in malware attacks using the current war.

The slow fading of Corona threats has made many of these attackers shift their craft by capitalizing on the current war. They do this by creating false websites that pretend to offer war updates or request donations for the affected parties. As a result, many online users through curiosity or desire to help have unknowingly fallen into this trap and are exposed to viruses.

• More threats are directed at cloud-based services.

The year 2020 saw many firms shifting to remote work. This shift propelled the adoption of cloud services to assist in easy access and sharing of files. Regardless of the several benefits of cloud systems, it also presents other challenges as it comes with a few vulnerabilities.

Below are some of the common vulnerabilities

• Instances of misconfiguration: There have been several cases where a firm fails to properly configure its system. Most attackers often exploit this problem when accessing a firm’s system and vital data.
• Accessibility from anywhere: The cloud system offers the huge advantage of being accessible anywhere. Regardless, this benefit also poses a risk of exposure to hackers especially if a user accesses it via insecure connections like public WiFi.
• Mobile use has created a security risk.

The shift to remote working by most firms encourages most staff to perform some of their tasks via phone. Even though the use of smartphones has been known to increase performance, it also has a fair share of threats. Below are some of the smartphone’s vulnerabilities that have been utilized by hackers :

First, most mobile users are known to check their emails immediately after they’ve received them. This continuous check of notifications allows hackers to quickly gain the vital information that lets them into the business portal.

Second, some mobile app developers fail to use strong encryption on their apps. Thus many handsets have been easy prey for cybercriminals to access vital information.

Last, smartphone apps access vital data through several permissions they request during their installations. This data is then sold to advertisers and sometimes they may get into the hands of cybercriminals.

• Rise in the cyber attack directed at the supply chain.

Supply chain attacks are done on an organization’s network by targeting different business entities that are linked to the network but are weakly secured. Currently, this attack has been on the rise and once hackers gain entry through an unsecured business entity, it spreads to other networks in the chain.

Now let’s take a look at some of the solutions to the above cyber threats.

2024 Solutions To Growing Online Security Threats

With several security risks popping up frequently, cyber security has also been evolving fast to counter these threats. Here are some major solutions that have been brought forward to counter these threats.

Use of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in cybersecurity

The use of AI in offering software security has proven fruitful. It can assist in monitoring activities in a network and detect any strange moves thus countering cybercrime. Besides, it’s useful in a network where several transactions are taking place within a short time.

Using MACH Architecture in the digital network

MACH is an abbreviation for Microservices, API-first, Cloud-native and Headless architecture. So the MACH is a network structure where each service of an organization is run independently as a system(Microservices). Also, each of these systems has its database (Cloud-native) and uses API to communicate with each other.

The independence in this digital structure offers more security as it allows organizations technology that’s most advanced and best suits their needs. Besides, it offers quick detection of malicious activities which can then be dealt with in good time and without affecting the entire system. Last, it offers a quick rolling out of updates that make it more secure to changing threats and also fits in performing changing needs.

Creating strong endpoint protection

Endpoints are the networks and devices that are connected to the organization’s digital system. Since this is the entry point for most threats, it can be secured by strong software.

Education of staff

Nothing still beats educating staff as cybercriminals often gain access to the network by sending phishing emails and links to unknowing employees. Hence the education of staff on things to avoid can prevent most attacks.

2024 Predictions Regarding New Software Threats And Solutions

Rise of threats on IoT running on 5G network

5G is a new technology that hasn’t been fully explored. As a result, they’ll be challenges that will arise on this network. Some of these challenges will be exploited by attackers thus increasing attacks on IoT (Internet of Things) running on 5G.

Mobile ransomware attacks

The number of mobile phone users especially in the financial sector is still on the rise. Mobile phones being an easy target, we’ll experience more attacks directed at them. To secure yourself and your organizations from these attacks, you’ll need mobile security apps.

Rise of hacking of cars

Smart cars have been on the rise with most relying on the internet and other wireless connections. Hence, we’re likely to see attacks directed at these smart vehicles. This calls for advanced security on these vehicles.

Conclusion

To sum it up, new digital threats are emerging daily as new technologies are also being adopted to counter them. To ensure you’re safe, ascertain you’re using the best technologies and taking necessary measures to safeguard yourself and your business. Though device soundness goes beyond network security. Ensure your broken laptop hinge is restored to get the most out of it.