Top 4 Cyber Threat Predictions for 2023

In 2022, the cyber industry saw new threats across cloud, IoT, and mobile devices. These attacks were executed by exploiting misconfigurations, lack of proper monitoring software, and through techniques like phishing and ransomware. 

Unfortunately, in 2023, attackers are only going to become more sophisticated and armed with innovative ways to breach networks and capture sensitive data. 

Here are our top four 2023 predictions and what organizations can do to best prepare! 

4. IoT

IoT devices are particularly vulnerable because often they do not have the same security mechanisms that we’re used to with other technologies. The rise of IoT, especially in the healthcare field, leaves a huge vulnerability. By attacking health devices, hackers can get a hold of personal information and very sensitive health data that’s detrimental to patients and hospitals alike. By keeping devices up-to-date and patching known vulnerabilities, organizations can reap the benefits of IoT while minimizing risk. 

3. Cloud Vulnerabilities 

The great migration to the cloud has had many benefits for organizations, however, as a result it has also presented more risk. With infrastructure now scattered across different cloud environments, it becomes much harder for organizations to manage their attack surface. The best way to mitigate this risk is by investing in technologies like attack surface management solutions and vulnerability management scanners to both know all of your risks and monitor them. 

2. Ransomware

Unfortunately, 2022 is not the end of ransomware. In fact we’ll likely only see increases in the years to come. Ransomware is a type of malware that blocks access to important information or devices and demands payment before releasing the data. When an employee’s device or account is blocked by ransomware, the company is then responsible for recovering this data and potentially giving in to the hackers’ demands. The best way to block ransomware is to have high quality employee training and awareness about what’s safe and what’s suspicious. The next best prevention is to invest in the right antivirus software to catch and block these attempts before they escalate. 

1. Phishing

Phishing and social engineering will remain the number one way hackers break into sensitive information. Phishing has been the primary attack method for several years, and we don’t see that changing. These techniques will continue to get more sophisticated, with hackers only getting better at developing very convincing emails and tricks for capturing credentials. 

Organizations can be a step ahead by: 

1. Using multi-factor authentication. This way, if credentials are lost, there’s another layer of protection when the bad actor attempts to log in. 
2. Provide employee and management cybersecurity training to get the team up to speed on recognizing and reporting phishing attempts. 

While technology becomes more advanced, so do bad actors online. There is a slew of software out there for you to invest in and many can protect your organization. However, the best way to prevent cyber attacks is to keep your employee base trained and make sure you have the basic infrastructure down. If you don’t feel prepared, consider working with TCecure to best protect your data and your organization!