Top 7 Cyber Security Concerns in 2023
I’m often asked what are the top concerns in relation to Information / Cyber Security are as I see them across my clients. In no particular order, they are:
1. Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware has become an increasingly prevalent and disruptive threat. Cybercriminals continue to refine their tactics and target more organisations, demanding significant ransoms in exchange for not releasing stolen data. The rise of ransomware-as-a-service platforms further exacerbates the problem, making it easier for criminals to execute attacks.
2. Cloud Security
As more organisations migrate their operations to the cloud, securing cloud-based infrastructures and applications will become even more critical. Most security breaches within the cloud are a result of human error – misconfiguring the cloud. Ensuring that the cloud is well understood (especially as they add more features) and managed by organisations, and configured correctly to prevent unauthorised access in multi-cloud and hybrid-cloud environments will be ongoing challenges.
3. IoT & OT Security
The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) and Operational Technology (OT) devices is expanding the attack surface for cyber threats. Securing these devices, which often have limited built-in security features, will be essential in preventing breaches and protecting sensitive data.
4. Supply Chain Attacks
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting supply chains to compromise multiple organizations through a single point of vulnerability. Organisations will need to assess and manage the security risks associated with their suppliers and third-party vendors to prevent breaches and maintain secure operations.
5. AI-Driven Cyber Threats
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning by cybercriminals is expected to increase, leading to more sophisticated and targeted attacks. Defending against these advanced threats will require organizations to adopt AI-driven security solutions and stay up-to-date with the latest threat intelligence.
6. Privacy Regulations & Compliance
As data privacy regulations like the Australian Privacy Act continue to evolve, organisations will need to adapt their information security practices to ensure compliance. This will involve implementing robust data protection measures, privacy-by-design approaches, and effective incident response plans.
6. Remote Work & BYOD Security
Now that remote working is prevalent and bring-your-own-device (BYOD) is here, this has exposed organisations to new security risks. Securing remote access, managing device security, and ensuring data privacy for remote employees will be crucial. Effectively an entirely different way of looking at the different layers of your defence zones need redesigning.
7. Cyber Security Skills Shortage
The demand for skilled cyber security professionals continues to outpace supply, resulting in a significant talent gap. Organisations will need to invest in training and upskilling their employees, as well as exploring alternative solutions like automation and managed security services to address this challenge.
These are just some of the issues that highlight the importance of staying informed about the latest developments in information security and adopting a proactive, risk-based approach to cyber security.
