Top 2022 Trends In Cyber Security

In the last two years, the technological world has changed in a major way. Since the onset of COVID-19 in 2020, cybercriminals have had the perfect environment to run amok and wreak havoc throughout systems across the world. 

Because of the millions of people working and learning from home, society is more digitized than it’s ever been. This is helpful to the general public in many ways, but it creates plenty of opportunities for phishers, hackers, scammers, and other types of cybercriminals. 

As time goes on, it’s unlikely that their numbers will do anything but increase, which is why Barricade Cyber Solutions finds it important to educate our clients and the general public on what they can do to protect themselves and their data online. 

In this article, you’ll find the most pervasive cybersecurity trends of 2022. By understanding what’s going on in the industry, you can equip yourself and your business with what it takes to avoid the risks. 

Top Trends of 2022

Here are some of the most significant trends affecting the cybersecurity industry and online security in general: 

New Devices on the Market

Part of the reason why cyberattacks have increased so notably is thanks to the onslaught of new technology. New technology means new avenues in which to target individuals, and cybercriminals will take advantage of that – and they have already. 

It’s essential to find ways to protect your devices – even if you don’t think it’s possible for your specific device to be hacked, there is probably a way. For example, even smart plugs, wearable fitness devices, and baby monitors are at risk of being targeted by cybercriminals. 

 

Ransomware Threat Increase

When a device is attacked by ransomware, its files are locked away by a virus via unbreakable cryptography. The virus will then threaten to destroy the files unless the ransom is paid – typically in cryptocurrency. Ransomware may also threaten to publish data publicly, which may put an organization at risk for huge fines. 

Ransomware is most often carried out through phishing attacks. Someone at an organization will be tricked into clicking a link that downloads the ransomware, or providing details that leave them vulnerable. Most recently, a direct infection via USB devices done by those who have direct physical access to machines has become common. 

The key to preventing ransomware is education. If employees are aware of the signs of a phishing scam, they are less likely to infect their devices with ransomware. 

Attacks on the Cloud

Instead of relying on physical methods, many companies rely on the cloud to store software applications, data, and other services – simply through an internet connection. There are plenty of benefits that coincide with using this method, such as reduced costs and increased efficiency, but there are known risks as well. 

The cloud can fall victim to cyber threats that expose vulnerabilities in the system’s security. Sometimes, hackers can gain access to sensitive information and do with it what they please. 

Cloud-based security is essential, seeing as the cloud is used so frequently in today’s work-from-home society. 

Easy Targets via Outdated Systems

Cyberattacks are becoming more and more sophisticated as time goes on, so when cybercriminals come across outdated and inefficient systems, the way in is all too easy. In order to keep technology protected from cyberattacks, cybersecurity experts must be armed with the latest skills and strategies. Also, trading out outdated systems for newer, more adequately protected options, is the wise choice. 

New Regulations

Since technology changes so fast, cybercriminals have acted confidently knowing that it’s extremely difficult for the general public to understand, let alone police, their actions. But 2022 may have been the year that changed everything, as regulations are swiftly catching up to match the standards of the cybersecurity industry. 

 

A growing number of jurisdictions are passing laws related to payment following ransomware attacks, and legal obligations are being given to Chief Information Security Officers in order to limit data theft impact, losses, and customer breaches. This change in regulations will increase the burden on those responsible for business information security, but it will make for positive changes in the long run. It’s essential for businesses to have this ammunition, because the personal information that customers trust them with should remain protected. 

Updates on Cybersecurity

Because technology is so essential to the way society runs, cybersecurity will continue to grow and change as new devices are introduced, new regulations are made, and new techniques are inevitably thought of by cybercriminals. In order to keep yourself and your company safe from cyberattacks, it’s more crucial than ever to stay educated and updated on cybersecurity. 

 

To provide your data with all-encompassing protection, get in touch with Barricade Cyber Solutions today. We have what it takes to safeguard your data and help your business get back on its feet if you’ve dealt with cyberattacks in the past.