As we move further into 2019, it has become apparent that many businesses are still struggling with the basics of cybersecurity, despite their best efforts and strategies. Issues such as company culture, lack of resources, and a defensive mindset can hinder an enterprise’s ability to secure its IT networks effectively.
The constantly evolving threat landscape and increasing complexity of business conditions require a new approach to cybersecurity. It is essential for businesses to adapt and evolve their cybersecurity playbook to stay ahead of malicious actors. Here are some key trends shaping cybersecurity in 2019 and why an evolved cybersecurity strategy is crucial:
- Ethical Hackers Pave Way for Good Cryptominers
While malicious actors continue to use cryptomining for nefarious purposes, ethical hackers and organizations are beginning to harness this technology for good. Businesses are hiring ethical hackers to identify vulnerabilities in exchange for resources to mine cryptocurrencies. However, it is crucial for organizations to have robust cybersecurity measures in place to ensure that ethical hackers do not inadvertently expose the company to greater risks. - ‘Camouflage and Capture’ Replaces ‘Detect and Deny’
Hackers are increasingly deploying pre-defined, weaponized packages, challenging traditional cybersecurity approaches. Companies must shift from a reactive ‘detect and deny’ strategy to a proactive ‘camouflage and capture’ approach. This involves setting traps, establishing honey pots, and actively hunting for threats within the network. - Small and Medium-sized Businesses Face Enterprise-Sized Threats
Automation has made it easier for attackers to launch random attacks, placing small and mid-size businesses at a higher risk. Limited resources and expertise make these organizations vulnerable to cyber threats. Investing in proactive threat assessment and monitoring is essential for improving their security posture. - Companies Target Shadow IT in Earnest
Shadow IT projects pose a significant security threat as they are often managed without the knowledge of the IT department. In 2019, we can expect organizations to take steps to bring shadow IT under control and enhance visibility into their systems. Collaboration between IT and security teams will be crucial for mitigating these risks. - Social Engineers Exploit People’s Trust
Hackers are increasingly targeting the human factor as a vulnerable entry point into systems. Social engineering tactics such as phishing and spear-phishing attacks are on the rise. Educating employees about cybersecurity best practices and implementing robust security measures are essential for mitigating this risk. - Deeper Collaboration Leads to More Disclosed Vulnerabilities
The number of vulnerabilities disclosed is expected to increase in 2019, as collaboration between the public and private sectors improves. This collaboration allows for quicker identification and patching of vulnerabilities, enhancing overall cybersecurity.In conclusion, businesses of all sizes must prioritize cybersecurity and adopt a proactive approach to security. Innovation is crucial for creating exceptional customer experiences, but it must be accompanied by robust cybersecurity measures to protect against evolving threats. By implementing a new cybersecurity playbook that emphasizes collaboration, aggressive strategies, employee awareness, and external expertise, businesses can enhance their security posture and stay ahead of malicious actors. Are you ready to embrace this new approach to cybersecurity in 2019?