Cybersecurity, information technology security (IT security), or as commonly known, computer security, is the protection supplied to computers and computer systems to save them from damage or theft. The damage can be a threat to their software, hardware, or electronic data. Also, disruption or misdirection of the services provided can happen. When I use my Cox internet plans, I make sure to use a secure data link.
It is quite essential because most of the businesses rely on computer systems. And it is not a simple matter anymore. Services like Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi are a part of it. And the rising trend of smart devices such as smartphones, televisions, etc., have added to the complexity of it. Internet of Things is also adding to the fact that cybersecurity is no more a luxury, but a necessity.
If we talk about the US, cybersecurity happens to be at number one on the American CEOs’ list when it comes to “external concerns”. It includes CEOs from every industry, not just IT. The reason is the increasing number of cyber attacks so the need for a digital signature.
So, improved cybersecurity or limited IT communication? Let’s see what are the top cybersecurity trends that we can expect to see in 2020!
Phishing Threats
If phishing has made it to number one on our cybersecurity trends, you should not be surprised. It has been on every cybersecurity threat list for a while now, and that doesn’t seem to be changing anytime sooner. The landscape of phishing mediums is expanding, for sure, although email is still the most preferred way of cybercriminals.
78% of cyber-espionage issues were based on phishing. And this isn’t limited to the use of email as a medium alone. Cybercriminals have devised several ways of reaching out to their target. They use:
Smishing
Use of SMS services to attack a person, and ask for personal information such as login credentials, bank account details, etc.
Vishing
Communications on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, etc., to obtain sensitive personal information. They do this by using the live calling feature. Phishing sites even hire fake live persons to make the calls and pretend they represent big names like Apple, Microsoft, etc.
Use of Mobile Phone as an Attack Vector
Nowadays, it is almost impossible to come across a person who doesn’t own a mobile phone. From business to relationships, you can now carry everything in your pocket. There are apps available for anything you want to do with your time. You can book dinners, manage flights, get appointments, and listen to your favorite music. Even if you do not want to spend all your time on your phone and want to lose some pounds, there is an app to remind you of that too. Butthere is always a risk for privacy breach. And this goes for both professional and personal uses. Cybercriminals are most likely to get advantage of the ease too. And what better time for it than the nearest possible future, i.e., 2020.
Local Governments and Enterprises under Ransomware Threats
Ransomware attacks targeting important individuals and even companies are increasing with each passing year. Even governments or government officials are not safe.
A threat intelligence firm, Research from Recorded Future has reported about 170 ransomware attacks on state and local government officials in the past six years. According to their report, twenty cities in Texas were targeted for coordinated ransomware attacks. And the data just covers the US cities. Talk about the world! The main reason could be the lack of awareness regarding cybersecurity in general public.
However, this is going to get dangerous because cybercriminals are getting paid, and this revenue is enough to ensure the profitability of their ventures. We can expect the number of attacks to increase next year making this threat as the top cybersecurity trend!
Increased Security: Data Privacy
Ever since the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) came out in May 2018, states, countries, companies, and individuals all around the world have started to take closer looks at their data-privacy rules and regulations. The objective behind it is to develop, regulate, and implement new rules and regulations that guarantee data security against cybercriminals. This measure has become compulsory to make sure that their consumers (or citizens) are protected against cyber threats.
Also, it makes those entities, who pose a threat to cybersecurity, punishable by law. For example, if I want to check the remaining data on my Cox package, the regulations would make it impossible for an intruder on the website to mess with the details. This way, my identity and data would be safe.
