Global Malware Detections Surge in 2022, Reveals SonicWall Cyber Threat Report
In the latest findings from SonicWall, global malware detections have increased by 2% year-on-year in 2022, reaching a staggering 5.5 billion. The report also highlighted a 5% surge in never-before-seen malware variants, indicating ongoing innovation within the cybercrime landscape.
Key Findings from the 2023 SonicWall Cyber Threat Report:
- 465,501 new malware samples discovered, closely aligned with zero-day attack patterns
- 43% rise in cryptojacking malware, totaling 139 million “low-and-slow” attacks
- 87% increase in IoT malware, reaching 112 million detections
- 21% decrease in ransomware volumes, with 493 million instances recorded
The education, finance, and healthcare sectors experienced significant increases in ransomware attacks, with Europe and the UK witnessing a surge in YoY volumes. Ukraine reported record malware and ransomware detections, making it a hotspot for cyber threats.
Regional Trends in Cyber Threats:
- Europe: 70% increase in malware detections, driven by Ukraine’s record numbers
- UK: 112% rise in cyber attacks, making it the second most targeted country globally
- US, UK, and Germany saw declines in malware volumes, while intrusion attempts hit 6.3 trillion globally
Log4j remained a persistent challenge for network defenders, with SonicWall recording over one billion intrusion attempts using the Log4Shell exploit in 2022. Immanuel Chavoya, SonicWall’s threat detection and response strategist, emphasized the importance of understanding attackers’ tactics and implementing threat-informed cybersecurity strategies.
Looking Ahead:
As cyber-attacks become more sophisticated and covert, organizations must prioritize cybersecurity defenses to protect against evolving threats. With a focus on weak IoT devices, cryptojacking, and targeting vulnerable sectors like schools and hospitals, proactive security measures are essential for safeguarding against potential disruptions.