As technology grows, cybersecurity professionals must contend with a world that is becoming more complicated and unpredictable. Global laws are always evolving, and cyberattacks are getting more complex.
You may be surprised to learn that, if cybercrime were a nation, it would rank third in the world's economies, behind only the United States and China. These findings came from a study conducted by the 2022 Cybersecurity Almanac.
We will examine the emerging trends that will influence cybersecurity in 2024 within this exciting and demanding framework.
1. Shortage of professionals
By 2024, there will still be a need for highly qualified cybersecurity specialists. There is a significant and growing gap between accessible jobs and talent.
Companies will bet on increased investments in training programs, skill development, and improvement, as well as ongoing compensation increases for individuals with the requisite expertise, to address the scarcity of professionals in the field.
2. Generative AI adopted on both sides of the battle
Artificial Intelligence-powered attacks will become more complex and intelligent.
These days, strengthening cybersecurity in any digital setting requires artificial intelligence. It is useful, but hackers have taken advantage of it in complex assaults that use AI, machine learning, and other advanced technologies.
Therefore, boosting defenses using the same technology that hackers employ will be the most effective way to combat cyberattacks in 2024.
3. Phishing attacks
Phishing attacks will always be a significant obstacle for businesses.
Phishing is a popular type of cybercrime when thieves pose as reputable companies in an attempt to gain sensitive data, like passwords, bank account information, or other personal information.
Raising awareness across the entire organization will be crucial to handling this issue, but adopting zero-trust models and using AI will also become more and more crucial.
4. Cybersecurity as a business strategy
Cybersecurity will no longer be limited to the IT department and will be a strategic priority by 2024. By 2025, 40% of firm boards will have a cybersecurity committee of their own, according to a Gartner report.
Additionally, according to the research, by 2026, at least one member with professional experience will be present on 70% of boards.
This integration will allow us to move beyond reactive protection and develop more effective threat mitigation solutions.
5. Zero Trust is the rule
In recent years, the idea of zero trust has been increasingly popular. According to the zero trust method, the key is to have no faith in any entity, either inside or outside the network. In other words, any user, regardless of location, is viewed as a possible threat.
This zero-trust security architecture will still be top of mind in 2024 to shield businesses from network lateral movements, external breaches, and internal dangers.
6. Multi-factor authentication
By 2024, the use of passwords solely for authentication will be decreasing.
Due to the fact that multi-factor authentication requires more information from users than just a password, it will be crucial for safeguarding accounts and data.
Companies can also set up a multi-factor authentication system to notify them if any questionable login activity is found. This minimizes losses by enabling businesses to react to cyberattacks more quickly.
7. Cyber resilience and cybersecurity
Separating the two terms will become more and more important in 2024.
A Forbes forecast states that although the goal of cybersecurity is to avoid attacks, many firms are beginning to place a greater emphasis on resilience as a reflection of the harsh fact that no security can offer 100% safety.
The purpose of resilience measures is to guarantee that operations continue even in the event of a successful breach. In 2024, reducing downtime and data loss while concurrently enhancing quick recovery capabilities will continue to be a top strategic focus.
8. State-sponsored cyberattacks
Cyberattacks are not limited to the actions of lone hackers. We should expect a rise in state-sponsored espionage and cyberattacks by 2024. For instance, the conflict in Ukraine demonstrated how closely military actions and cyberwarfare activities are related.
Nations will have to work together on global projects and bolster their cybersecurity defenses.
In summary, cybersecurity trends for 2024 show growing concerns such as a skills scarcity and an increase in advanced AI-driven attacks.
The transition to a zero-trust strategy, emphasis on multi-factor authentication, and distinguishing between resilience and cybersecurity are critical.
Companies are starting to view cybersecurity as a strategic concern, and combating threats—especially those supported by the state—requires international cooperation. In 2024, maintaining digital integrity will call for creativity, learning, and a proactive strategy to guarantee security in a networked digital environment.
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