Cyber Security

6 Cyber Security Trends for 2023

In 2022, business got even more digital.

We adopted new technologies, services and applications all while navigating hybrid working. With this in mind, what are the cyber security trends for 2023?

2022 has been another year that we’ve seen the cyber threat increase. Many companies bolstered their defences amid a flurry of high-profile breaches this year. But is it enough? Read on to look at the cyber security trends impacting the new year.

Ransomware as a service (RaaS)

Our first trend, and perhaps the scariest, is that ransomware is becoming big business. It’s a subscription-based model that a cybercriminal of any skill can use to automate attacks at scale. Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) works like Software as a Service (SaaS). While a SaaS company, like MailChimp, is used to send marketing and sales email, its intention is not to exhort money from recipients. However, RaaS is built to do exactly that. Ransomware tools come as part of the service, so it’s easy for anyone to become a master cyber-criminal. They receive a cut of the spoils in each successful ransom payment.

Remote working

Remote work and telecommuting will continue to be significant trends in cybersecurity as more companies adopt hybrid working models. Cybercrime could cost your business a lot of money if sensitive data is lost, and if your business is still using legacy security solutions, there are significant risks. Cyber Security solutions must protect your company data wherever your employees work.

Cloud Security

Cloud security will remain a top priority as more organisations move data and applications to the cloud. Clunky on-premise solutions have been holding businesses back for years. As online solutions for servers and storage becomes widely available and affordable, more and more companies are adopting the cloud. With all that sensitive data in the cloud, having a solution like Microsoft Azure is ideal. With a wide array of security tools, Azure provides advanced protection in the cloud.

AI Threat Detection and Response

Our fourth Cyber Security trend for 2023 is Artificial Intelligence and machine learning, which will be used increasingly for threat detection and response. Behavioural AI features recognise malicious actions and patterns to detect file-less, zero-day, and nation-grade attacks. Integrating AI ensures you can discover threats quickly, reducing the effects of ransomware and phishing attacks.

Demand for cybersecurity professionals will outstrip the supply

The need for more IT Security is greater than ever before. However, a lack of resources means many businesses aren’t meeting the proper cybersecurity standard. This has much to do with the need for more highly trained cybersecurity professionals. Despite best efforts across the market to bring in more cyber talent, more is needed. Unfortunately, demand is outstripping supply. According to the 2022 Cybersecurity Workforce study, the number of unfilled IT security positions doubled to a 26.2% increase in the previous year representing more than 3.4 million vacant slots.

The human factor will become a top security concern

While businesses allocate more time and money to tackling cybercrime, staff-related breaches soar! A whopping 90% of data breaches involve human error. A lack of awareness is down to the company rather than the employees. Employees that have yet to be trained can’t be expected to know the risks and protect your company.

Although most companies know employees’ vital role in protecting company data, they still need to implement an efficient training plan. The problem with relying on technology is that often, and it’s not the systems that are the target – but the employees.

Thinking about upping your cyber security game? Here’s what we suggest.

There are several steps that companies can take to protect themselves from cyber attacks:

Implement a security management system: This can help companies identify and manage potential security risks.

Develop a security policy: A security policy is a set of guidelines that outlines how a company will protect its sensitive information and assets.

Implement security controls: Security controls, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems, can help protect against cyber attacks.

Train employees: Employee education and training are critical in reducing the risk of cyber attacks. Employees should be educated about safe computing practices and recognise and report potential security threats.

Monitor and assess security: Regular monitoring and assessment of the company’s security measures are necessary to identify and address any vulnerabilities.

Backup and recovery: Implement regular backup procedures, and have a disaster recovery plan in case of a security incident.

Incident response plan: A incident response plan should be developed and tested in case a cybersecurity incident occurs. That way, all stakeholders know their roles and can act quickly.

Third-party security assessments and audits: Evaluate the security of third parties that handle sensitive data and Perform regular security audits on these third-party services.

It’s worth noting that cyber security is a continuous effort, so even if you take all the above steps, it’s essential to stay current with the latest cyber security trends and best practices to improve the company’s security posture.