As we enter the new year, now is a great time to reevaluate your business and look for any cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Year after year, cyber threats evolve, and hackers find new ways to exploit your company’s data and confidential information.
Heightened cybersecurity risks are prevalent, especially after a year of rising social, political and economic challenges. One way to prepare for future threats and mitigate risks is to be aware of upcoming trends in cybersecurity.
Here are six 2023 cybersecurity trends to look out for to protect your business and maintain your success.
[Related: Watch Out for Spam Emails That Capitalize on Current Events]
Hackers-for-Hire
Analysts predict opportunities for less experienced and less technical (but nevertheless dangerous) cybercriminals will increase in 2023.
These hackers sell their “services,” such as exfiltrating private data, to third parties for money. More hackers-for-hire “occupations” may emerge in the next year. If they do, cybercriminals will have lower barriers of entry to do damage for quick and easy pay.
Securing Hybrid Workforces
In the past few years, hybrid and remote workplaces have increased in popularity — and we don’t see that trend going anywhere anytime soon.
According to an Owl Labs study, 16% of the workforce operates remotely, while 62% has a hybrid option. Only 22% work full-time from an office. This is one of the top considerations when reviewing cybersecurity practices in 2023.
Because of this rising remote and hybrid environment, we see several needs that will become more commonplace this year:
- Adapting cybersecurity infrastructures to support a hybrid workforce
- Integrating key technology, like cloud and SaaS
- Focusing heavily on secure access and remote cybersecurity policies
Risk of Interconnected Systems
Another 2023 cybersecurity trend is the increased risk of interconnected apps and systems.
As companies become more and more present digitally, they integrate new technologies, applications and services to connect them with their employees and customers — no matter their location. Because these systems are so interconnected, they can introduce new vulnerabilities for hackers to exploit.
[Related: Don’t Ignore Software Updates and Security Patches]
Focusing on the Internet of Things (IoT)
Besides the risk of interconnected systems, companies should watch IoT networks (referring to smart devices and systems) when it comes to cybersecurity.
Companies will need to continuously monitor and assess new workplace technologies, such as networked audiovisual tools, vehicles and GPS devices (to name a few). All these systems are vulnerable to threats.
It’s also important to devise a strong security incident response plan when these IoT devices are at risk. That plan can ensure your information is safe and keep your business up and running.
Increased Cloud Security
Cloud computing software has been on an upward trajectory since 2020, and companies worldwide now use it. As such, cloud-related security incidents have also increased.
The 2022 IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report revealed that 45% of cybersecurity incidents occurred in cloud environments. Needless to say, cloud and other SaaS security efforts should be a main focus in 2023.
Expanded Phishing Focus
Just because phishing is one of the most common forms of cybercrime doesn’t mean we should sweep it under the rug as something we’re already familiar with.
If you’re unfamiliar with it, phishing is a method where cyberattackers use fake correspondence via emails and messenger applications. Via deceptive messages, they extract account details or other information that allows them to access victims’ systems. According to a 2021 CISCO report, experts suggested phishing attacks are responsible for 90% of total data breaches.
[Related: Manufacturers’ Guide to Data Security]
Partner With CMIT Solutions Today!
It’s impossible to predict the future of cybersecurity with absolute certainty, whether it’s the latest threat or protective method. But with CMIT Solutions of Monroe, it’s easy to be prepared.
Our managed IT services can help you keep your business up and running with 24/7 maintenance and monitoring. Plus, our experts offer exemplary business IT support systems so that you can minimize downtime and maximize success, no matter your industry.
Let’s get started. Learn more about our managed IT services, or contact us today for a consultation.
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