Cyber Security trends for 2022

14 Dec 2021

We all know that cyber security is not new. Cyber attacks have been occurring now for many years, however with new technologies and the introduction of new working behaviours, cyber criminals have evolved and changed their approaches too. Therefore, it is as important now, more than ever to ensure that you are ahead of the game when it comes to your cyber stack and understanding of the latest products and solutions available. 

We explore the trends to look out for in 2022 in cyber security. Looking at the latest cyber landscape and what that means for businesses and organisations. 

   

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Enabled Security 

AI is fast becoming a signature piece of tech in every-day-life, especially within cyber security. AI utilises digital information and uses it to help in the fight against cybercrime.  

As technology continues to evolve, this method can react and respond to new data being presented as part of machine learning to then use as a form of defence across all forms of cyber security. 

 

Passwordless Authentication 

Passwords have always been the default method for authentication access, however times are changing, as passwords and usernames are quickly becoming a thing of the past. 

By removing usernames and passwords from the user experience, organisations can achieve enhanced security while making authentication fast and simple for end-users. 

 

Targeted Phishing Attacks 

Targeted phishing attacks are still an ever-present threat to an organisation’s security. These attacks use social engineering tactics to make a person take an action that is against their best interests. 

These threats will become more personalised and targeted using geo-targeting, making the end user more susceptible and vulnerable. 

 

Using Mobile Devices as a Vector of Attack 

Our mobile devices are an extension of our person and in today’s world we use them for everything from personal banking to connecting with long distance loved ones. These devises, as a result hold very personal data, making them a target for hackers. 

As humans we are the weakest link in our cyber security stack, therefore an attack vector takes advantage of this vulnerability to gain access to this information. Mobile attack vectors can be anything from malware to data tampering. 

 

Internet of Things Vulnerability (IoT) 

On average every one person owns approx. 7 smart devices. We live in a world where everyday things interconnect with each other, giving us, the end user, an all-round experience that adds to our quality of life. 

With this expanded interconnectivity come additional threats. Security issues have been happening in this space for a while, with systems being compromised due to devices being hacked. 

 

Cyber-Attacks on Financial Services 

According to the VMWare report, the first half of 2020 saw a 238% increase in cyberattacks targeting financial institutions Ransomware and supply-chain attacks, along with the banking trojans and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks, are the top cybersecurity threats to look out for. 

Therefore, it is imperative to ensure you have a cybersecurity strategy that addresses the specific cyber threats in the financial industry. 

 

User Awareness 

This is the hardest thing to control as part of your cyber security defense, as it’s the human element. Even if a person has the knowledge with regards to best practice in their cyber stack, it’s their online behavior that counts. 

Poor security awareness is consistently at the root of most major incidents. 2022 will still see an attack on peoples lack of awareness when it comes to possible phishing, therefore it is essential that your team of employees have the appropriate training to give them the knowledge to keep your organization as safe as possible. 

 

Geo-Targeted Phishing Threats 

Cybercriminals are now using more personalised methods to target people. Geo-targeted phishing allows the hacker to use key information based on a user’s location to attempt a breach. The industry predicts this method will become more popular over the coming years, so companies and organisations need to be aware of this factor when investing in their cyber security defence strategy. 

 

Threats to Higher Education 

The educational sector can be targeted by cybercriminals because they contribute to the economy, skills development, and innovation in the UK. They handle multiple pieces of data and intellectual property that can be valuable to others. 

This demand on them will not dwindle as we go into a new year. According to the National Cyber Security Centre, they believe that state espionage will continue to pose the most significant threat to the long-term health of both universities and the UK itself. 

 

Growing Remote Work Security Concerns 

Working from home has completely been normalized and is now part of business structures across the world. However, this development in flexibility and having an improved work/life balance, has brought with it cyber security concerns and obstacles.  

Most organisations have reached a comfortable point in their cyber security posture, however cyber criminals are constantly changing and improving the way in which that attack. Therefore, it is important to look toward more advanced approaches, such as investing in a zero-trust model and identity-centric services to provide a stronger approach to these frequent attacks on an on-going basis. 

 

If you would like to discuss any of your needs for 2022, then please get in touch. Alternatively see our cyber security solutions here.

If you want to know more about the solutions we offer, or even if you just fancy debating whether Teams or Zoom is the King of the Conferencing Tools, then contact us today on info@koncisesolutions.com or call us on 020 7078 0789.


Go Back