1. Increase in sophisticated attacks based on artificial intelligence (AI)

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Hackers are increasingly exploiting artificial intelligence to automate attacks, making them more targeted, efficient and difficult to detect. These attacks can be used for activities such as vulnerability scanning, personalized phishing, the spread of malware, and the compromise of complex systems.

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How to defend yourself?

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Use their weapon against them! By implementing artificial intelligence in your defense, you can identify and block the attacks themselves more effectively.

In addition, by regularly updating software and systems with the latest security patches and regularly carrying out penetration tests and attack simulations, you can assess the strength of your defenses and prepare in advance.

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2. Growing use of ransomware and double extortion attacks

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Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts the victim's data, demanding a ransom for its release. In 2024, ransomware attacks are expected to become more sophisticated and targeted, using 'double extortion' tactics that threaten to publish stolen data if the ransom is not paid.

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How to defend yourself?

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First, you should implement disaster recovery solutions and programs, to restore systems and data in the event of an attack.

In addition, making regular and complete backups of important data is the simplest but also the most effective practice to avoid losing them.

In any case, avoid paying the ransom, as it could encourage hackers to continue their illegal activities.

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3. Exploiting supply chain vulnerabilities

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Companies are increasingly vulnerable to attacks that exploit the security weaknesses of their suppliers and partners. Hackers can target a vendor with less robust security to gain access to its customers' systems and data.

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How to defend yourself?

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Always carefully evaluate the security of suppliers and partners before establishing a collaboration, paying attention to the sensitive data you share with them.

In addition, you can implement strict access controls and monitor activity within the supply chain, by installing control software.

It also uses vendor management security solutions to automate risk assessment and monitoring.

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4. Increase in cyberattacks on mobile devices

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With the increase in the use of mobile devices for work and personal activities, cybercriminals are intensifying attacks aimed at these devices. Attacks can include malware, phishing, data theft, and man-in-the-middle attacks.

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How to defend yourself?

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Cybersecurity shouldn't be implemented only in the company, so installing reliable mobile security software and keeping it updated could already be a big step.

Also, even though it may seem boring, try to use unique and complex passwords to decrease the chances of them being easily discovered.

Always try to avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments from emails or SMS, they are often not who they say they are and they don't have good intentions.

Last but not least, download apps only from official sources such as authorized stores and not from uncertified online sites.

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5. Exploitation of social media platforms

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Social media platforms are increasingly being used to spread misinformation, phishing, and malware. Hackers can create fake profiles to impersonate real people or companies, tricking users into sharing sensitive information or clicking on malicious links.

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How to defend yourself?

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Be cautious with the information you share on social media and always verify the authenticity of profiles and accounts before interacting with them.

Also, avoid clicking on suspicious links or attachments from the messages you receive, keeping your privacy settings updated to limit who can see your sensitive information.

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Conclusion

In the ever-evolving cyber threat landscape, it's critical to remain vigilant, informed, and proactive. By taking appropriate security measures and following best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cyberattacks and safeguard your data.