Cybersecurity
What Cybersecurity Attack Trends Should You Watch Out for in 2023?
Sixty-eight percent of surveyed business leaders feel that cybersecurity risks are getting worse, and they have good reason.
Sixty-eight percent of surveyed business leaders feel that cybersecurity risks are getting worse, and they have good reason. Attacks continue to grow more sophisticated and are increasingly carried out by large criminal organizations that treat cyberattacks like a business operation. In 2021, the average number of global cyberattacks increased by 15.1%. Knowing what trends are emerging helps you update your defenses and reduce the risk of a breach or malware infection.
Here are the attack trends that deserve your attention.
Attacks on 5G Devices. As 5G infrastructure continues to build out and deliver on its promise of fast connectivity, it is also becoming a high-value target for attackers. Hackers are looking to exploit code vulnerabilities in the 5G hardware used for routers, mobile devices, and PCs. Whenever a new technology reaches widespread adoption, it brings new vulnerabilities, and 5G is no exception. When purchasing new 5G-enabled devices, ask about the firmware security practices of the manufacturer, as some build stronger protections into their hardware than others.
One-Time Password (OTP) Bypass. Multi-factor authentication is well-known as one of the most effective defenses against account takeover, even when an attacker already has the user's password. Because of this, criminal groups have developed methods to bypass MFA. Common tactics include reusing a recently captured OTP token, attempting to use a token generated on one account against a different account, exploiting tokens leaked through a web application, and using phishing to trick users into handing over their OTP code by convincing them to initiate a password reset.
Attacks Surrounding World Events. During the pandemic, cyberattack volume increased by approximately 600%. Large criminal hacking groups have recognized that world events and disasters create distraction and emotional vulnerability, both of which make targets easier to manipulate. Phishing campaigns tied to natural disasters, conflicts, and global crises are common. People are more likely to click without thinking when a message appears to relate to something urgent or emotionally resonant. Be especially cautious about unsolicited messages referencing major news events.
Smishing and Mobile Device Attacks. Mobile devices go with us nearly everywhere, and that constant connectivity is not lost on cybercriminals. SMS-based phishing, known as smishing, is increasing as attackers purchase lists of phone numbers and send convincing fake texts that look like shipping notifications, bank alerts, or order confirmations. A single wrong tap can result in an account breach or malware installation. Mobile malware is also rising sharply. During the first months of 2022, malware targeting mobile devices increased by 500%. Mobile anti-malware and DNS filtering are important protections that are often overlooked.
AI-Enhanced Phishing. Phishing messages used to be relatively easy to identify by their spelling errors and low-quality images. That is no longer the case. Criminal organizations now use AI and machine learning to craft phishing emails that look identical to legitimate brand communications, are personalized to the recipient, and are generated at scale. These messages are far more convincing and are sent in far greater volume than earlier phishing campaigns, which means your employees need current, ongoing awareness training to recognize them.
Schedule a Cybersecurity Check-Up.
Is your business prepared for today's evolving threats? The team at Cyber One Solutions can conduct a cybersecurity review to identify gaps and help you build stronger defenses. Contact us today to schedule a check-up and stay a step ahead of the threats.