As cyber threats continue to evolve, it is essential for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) to stay updated on the latest hacking techniques and trends. In 2023, the threat landscape is expected to become even more sophisticated, making it crucial for CISOs to understand the tactics used by hackers and take proactive measures to protect their organizations.
So what are the strategic and practical ways hacking has changed today compared to five, ten and even twenty years ago? There are several significant trends to highlight that look set to dominate the cybersecurity conversation in 2023.
Ransomware Attacks Will Continue to Increase:
Ransomware attacks are expected to continue increasing in 2023, with more sophisticated techniques being used by hackers.
Ransomware attacks are particularly dangerous as they can cause significant financial and reputational damage to organizations.
CISOs need to ensure that their organizations have the necessary security measures in place to prevent such attacks from occurring, including regularly backing up critical data, implementing multi-factor authentication, and training employees on how to recognize and respond to phishing emails.
A Lower Barrier to Entry
In the past, threat actors needed highly developed skill sets honed over many years. Hacking, especially targeting high-level organizations with valuable assets, wasn’t something just anyone could do — the bar was set high.
Today, with the emergence and growth of DIY hacking kits and services — available in places like the dark web — even fairly low-skilled cyber criminals can inflict damage and successfully commit crimes. This is concerning news because it means the pool of potential attackers is soaring.
Taking Advantage of the Shift to Remote Work
Although the COVID-19 pandemic is now receding, many effects still linger. One of the most notable is the sustained shift to remote working patterns. While more remote work options come with great employee benefits such as work-life balance and productivity, this style of working also carries inherent security risks.
With millions of companies now operating either partially or fully remote, along with escalating levels of cloud adoption, security teams have the challenging task of defending sensitive information and assets. Employees access all this data from a wide range of locations — including unsafe wireless networks and even public places.
AI-Powered Attacks Will Become More Prevalent:
In 2023, we can expect to see more AI-powered attacks, which use machine learning algorithms to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in an organisation's network.
These attacks can be particularly challenging to detect and prevent, as they can quickly adapt to changing security measures. CISOs need to ensure that their organisations are using AI-based security solutions to detect and respond to such attacks proactively.
Supply Chain Attacks Will Be a Significant Threat:
Supply chain attacks, where hackers target the suppliers and vendors of an organisation, are expected to become more prevalent in 2023.
These attacks can be particularly challenging to detect as they often occur through legitimate channels, making it challenging to differentiate between genuine and malicious activity. CISOs need to ensure that their organisations have robust supply chain risk management processes in place, including regular security assessments and third-party vendor management.
Cybercrime-as-a-Service Will Be More Accessible:
Cybercrime-as-a-service (CaaS) is expected to become more accessible in 2023, with more underground marketplaces offering hacking services to anyone willing to pay. This will make it easier for less technically skilled individuals to launch cyber-attacks, increasing the overall risk landscape. CISOs need to ensure that their organizations have strong cybersecurity policies in place, including strict access controls and regular security awareness training for employees.
Blockchain Technology Will Be Used for Cybercrime:
While blockchain technology is often associated with security, it can also be used for cybercrime.
In 2023, we can expect to see more hackers using blockchain technology to evade detection and cover their tracks. CISOs need to ensure that their organisations are using advanced cybersecurity solutions that can detect and respond to such attacks proactively.
As we move in to 2023 and beyond, companies look certain to continue along this path, emphasising security responsibility for everyone in the organisation, not just security teams.
CISOs need to stay updated on the latest hacking trends and tactics to protect their organisations from cyber threats.
By understanding the threat landscape and taking proactive measures, including implementing AI-based security solutions and robust supply chain risk management processes, CISOs can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and safeguard their organisation's critical data and assets..
