In this data-driven world, cybersecurity is an important topic to know. In this blog post, I am going to talk about cybersecurity trends that you need to know in 2023. And it does not matter that you are not an expert in the field. One simple thing like cryptocurrency exchange might require some good knowledge of cybersecurity threats. Getting ahead of time is a must because failure to be aware of sophisticated threats might directly affect your pocketbook. We will talk about the following cybersecurity trends in 2023.
- Application security
- Cloud security
- Mobile security
- IoT
- Remote work and attacks on corporate networks
- Cyber insurance
- Zero trust
- Artificial intelligence
- Outsourcing cybersecurity.
Application security
We leave in a mobile age and applications have become part of the life of almost anyone. Therefore, organizations across industries recognize the need for their application’s security. From blockchain apps to the simplest mobile applications need to consider cybersecurity because, with the advancement of software applications, more and more hackers try to gain unauthorized access, compromise data, and disrupt business applications.
To protect data, secure coding practices have become one of the fundamental pillars of application security. This year we expect to see a special emphasis on secure coding frameworks and guidelines.
Similarly, regular vulnerability assessments are also important to identify weaknesses in the application at an earlier point.
Integration of security controls throughout the entire application development cycle is another pillar. This includes secure coding practices, regular code reviews, security testing, secure deployment, and maintenance procedure.
Finally, embracing emerging technologies like Artificial intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) is also on the list of security measures.
Cloud security
Cloud security remains a key area in 2023 as companies embrace cloud services. They ensure security measures are in place to mitigate risks and protect sensitive data. For the purpose of cloud security, businesses adopt various tools. For example, many organizations are adopting multi-cloud strategies. Even in that case, monitoring mechanisms should be in place. A stricter mechanism is zero-trust architecture which assumes that no user or device should be inherently trusted. There is also an increased focus on container security tools such as vulnerability scanning, secure image registries, and runtime protection. Other tools include cloud workload protection, cloud-native security, and compliance and data protection in the cloud.
Mobile security
Since we live in a mobile age, adopting robust mobile security measures organizations can reduce the risks of mobile-related cyber threats. Here are some of the tools to adopt:
- Device protection
- App security
- Secure network connection
- Mobile device management (MDM)
- Mobile app management (MAM)
- Mobile threat defense
- User awareness and education.
IoT
The IoT landscape is expanding at a rapid speed. IoT devices like wearable fitness trackers, and voice control assistants have become part of our daily lives. IoT brings some cybersecurity threats with its expansion, like device diversity and complexity, data privacy, inadequate security measures, and so on.
To counteract, here are some key solutions:
- Strong authentication and encryption
- Regular updates and patch management
- Network segmentation
- Intrusion detection and monitoring
- Education and awareness.
Remote work and attacks on corporate networks
Remote work is not something unusual anymore. When working remotely, employees become dependent on network security. With this in mind, attacks on corporate networks have become more widespread. Phishing attacks, insecure home networks, endpoint security risks, virtual private network (VPN) vulnerability, and insider attacks are some of the risks that remote workers and their companies face.
To mitigate the risks, virtual private networks and secure remote desktop protocols ensure the encrypted connection between remote devices and the corporate network. Enforcing Multi-factor authentication adds another layer of security. Similarly, implementing robust endpoint security solutions, like firewalls or antivirus software helps protect remote devices.
Cyber insurance
Cyber insurance or cyber liability insurance is an insurance coverage that protects businesses against losses resulting from cyber-attacks. It includes financial protection, business interruption, data breach and privacy liability, extortion, and ransomware, cyber incident response. These are some of the benefits that businesses can take advantage of when affected by cyber-attacks.
Zero trust
Zero trust is a security framework that is based on the assumption that no user, device, or network element should be inherently trusted. This means that everything should be verified and requires continuous authentication and authorization for every access request.
Zero trust is based on the following principles:
- Least privilege
- Micro-segmentation
- Continuous authentication
- Network visibility and analytics
- Policy-based access.
Artificial Intelligence
With the rise of Artificial Intelligence, the detection and analysis of cybersecurity threats have become even more sophisticated. AI allows to detect and mitigate advanced persistent threats (APIs). They do so by effectively enhancing the speed and accuracy of threat detection. AI can also analyze behavior and network traffic. AI also provides real-time insights when a threat is detected as time is a crucial factor in cyber-attack management. AI can also detect vulnerabilities and prioritize risks.
While these are true, AI can itself be vulnerable to cyber-attacks. It can be exploited by malicious actors. To avoid cyber-attacks, AI technicians should also be trained in cybersecurity which adds another layer of required skills. These concerns make AI both a protector and a risk.
Outsourcing cybersecurity
Outsourcing cybersecurity means you will share sensitive information with third-party vendors. Therefore, it is of the key importance of how to select your vendors. Businesses should conduct due diligence to ensure the outsourced provider has enough security measures in place. This also involves continuous oversight and monitoring, which means that companies should conduct continuous reviews, assessments, and audits. Clear and constant communication with the outsources is critical. Similarly, the definition of roles and responsibilities is important to avoid possible intrusions into accounts and data.
Conclusion
Knowing about cybersecurity threats is of primary importance since data privacy and protection of sensitive information have a direct impact on personal matters. Knowing what causes risks and how to avoid them is important. In this blog post, I have mentioned some of the cybersecurity trends in 2023. This is not an exhaustive list and you may find more if you do research. I covered the basics though.
