Cyber Threats Facing Business in 2022

The world is entirely different than it was a few years ago since the global pandemic took place. It is crucial to stay on top of all the changes so that you are not left in the dust and protect yourself from new threats. Cybercriminals are using the unfortunate circumstances to their advantage. There is an increase in highly sophisticated cyberattacks. Society is only becoming more and more digitized (for instance, the drastic spike in remote workers) and the overall online nature of just about everyone’s lives. This brings so much more exposure for phishers, hackers, scammers, and extortionists to strike. Businesses must remain cautious of the growing attack methods and how to manage the risks.

Artificial Intelligence Cybersecurity

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the power to combat cybercrime by finding the red flags. AI cybersecurity can be used in operations that handle thousands of events taking place simultaneously (normally where cybercriminals lurk). AI is so useful for this because it can work off predictions, which is why it is becoming such a popular solution for many businesses going into 2022. However, many cybercriminals understand how AI works and therefore can manipulate the protective measures. Luckily, you may be able to counteract them right back with other AI-powered methods. AI is now considered to be necessary for identifying and countering critical cybersecurity threats for most businesses.

The Ever-increasing Ransomware

Ransomware attacks continue to grow at a rapid rate. This is largely due to the increase in online activity. Ransomware is the act of infecting a device with a virus to lock files behind unbreakable cryptography with a threat to destroy them unless a ransom is paid. This will typically be asked to be done in untraceable cryptocurrency. Another example of ransomware is when the software virus threatens to publish the data publicly, putting the business in a huge liability scare.

These attacks may work through phishing (an employee is tricked into giving away details or clicking a bad link) in which malware is downloaded onto a computer. Hackers are now more recently also using infection via USB devices by those with certain access. With the increase in attacks targeting critical infrastructures, such as water treatment facilities, gas pipelines, and hospitals, they could truly endanger the lives of so many people. It is vital to stay educated on the matter. Employees who are aware of the dangers of these types of attacks are much less likely to fall for them.

Business Partnerships

Security procedures must be a joint effort. Everyone involved in a supply chain is vulnerable. Therefore you must be careful and particular with who you decide to partner with. With more legislation regarding data, more organizations are at risk of significant penalties for any security slip-ups when it comes to sensitive information. Everyone that could gain access to your systems should be rigorously vetted. Be sure to ask all potential partnerships about their cybersecurity arrangements and secure cyber insurance so your business has a shot of making it out alive if these kinds of disasters strike.

The Evolution of Regulations

Managing cyber criminals’ activities have been challenging with the fast-changing nature of technology. Cybercrime has cost our economy way too much and is not sustainable. Regulators are determined to put a stop to this, whether that be done through expanding penalties to cover vulnerabilities and exposure to potential damage, or broadening jurisdictions passing laws responding to ransomware attacks. We may also see more legal obligations given to Chief Information Security Officers to limit the impact of data thefts, losses, and breaches on customers. Yes, this may seem like a burden to businesses initially, but in the long run, it will be worth it. Businesses must be able to protect themselves in order to protect all who they impact.

About Transparity Insurance Services

Transparity Insurance Services was founded for the purpose of helping clients to ensure their property and assets with no hassle. We are committed to providing a simple, easy, efficient, and positive experience to all of our clients, and prioritize open and transparent communication with our clients. Through our excellent customer service and technology, we can help you to find the right insurance program at a competitive price. Contact us today at (855) 889-2037 to learn more about what we can do for you.