Top 10 cybersecurity threats in 2024

Top 10 cybersecurity threats in 2024

Cybersecurity threats in 2024 are increasing with the advanced development in the technology sector. However, these developments attract the biggest threats to cybersecurity for businesses. 

These businesses need to stay informed of these potential risks. Cybercriminals are getting more clever, using innovative strategies to break digital security barriers, data breaches, and interrupt operations. 

To keep businesses running smoothly and help them protect themselves from the cybersecurity risks in 2024, we have curated a list of cybersecurity threats to be aware of.

Top 10 cybersecurity threats in 2024

   1.  Ransomware

Ransomware encrypts victim-owned files, and they cannot be viewed unless a ransom is paid. This threat has expanded dramatically in recent years, affecting all types of businesses. Ransomware attacks have the potential to cause major financial losses and operational disruptions. Businesses should utilize sophisticated anti-malware programs, regular software updates, and strong data backups to protect themselves from ransomware. 

  2. Malware

Malware is another type of cyberattack that poses a serious risk to the business. It is a kind of malicious software that can harm and disable your computer system. If your computer is attacked by this malicious software, it can gain access to your personal and financial information. It can also take control of your PC. 

Malware can come through email attachments, certain websites, and downloads. To stay free of malware, download a malware scanner on your device so that it can detect malicious links, viruses, and other threats to your device.

3.    Social Engineering

Social engineering attacks use psychological techniques to deceive people into disclosing sensitive information or engaging in behaviors that jeopardize their security. These attacks can take several forms, including tailgating, baiting, and pretexting. 

A business can protect itself from these attacks by establishing an atmosphere of security awareness, offering training sessions regularly, and installing effective authentication mechanisms. 

4.    Phishing 

Phishing is one of the most common and dangerous cybersecurity threats in today’s time. A hacker will send an email or message that looks to be from a reliable source (such as a bank or website) to carry out a phishing attack. Typically, the message will have a link that opens a fake webpage that mimics the real one.

The purpose of the fake website is to trick visitors into providing personal or financial information, which the hacker then exploits to steal their identity or commit fraud.

5.    SQL Injection Attacks

SQL injection attacks are specifically targets the database. In a SQL injection attack, a hacker inserts malicious code into a website's input field to run a resentful query on the database. It can remove your data, modify it, or completely take over the database. They can cause data loss, theft, or even system compromise. SQL injection attacks are extremely risky.

6.    Insider Threats

     AT&T discovered a major third-party data breach in early 2024, which exposed over 70 million users' call and text records, passwords, and other confidential information. This incident is a prime example of a third-party breach.

7.    DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service)

     DDoS overloads a network or website, making services unreachable. Cloud-based DDoS mitigation services can help a company to protect against DDoS attacks by collecting and filtering malicious traffic before it reaches the target.

    8.    Third-Party Exposure

     Hackers can disable security systems by breaking into systems that are not as fully secure and belong to third-parties, giving them special access to their main target.

AT&T rectified a massive third-party data breach in early 2024, exposing over 70 million users' call and text data, passwords, and other personal information. This incident is an excellent example of a third-party breach.

    9.    Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)

     APTs are deliberate, long-term intrusions in which a hacker infiltrates a network and remains hidden for some time. These assaults are typically carried out by competent and financially secure attackers seeking to steal personal information. To protect against APTs, a multilayered security approach comprising threat intelligence, security assessments, and network monitoring is required. 

   10.     Cloud Security

    Businesses are shifting to cloud environments, attracting new security threats such as incorrect cloud settings, data breaches, and insufficient security measures. Threats to cloud security can result in unauthorized access to sensitive data and disruptions to cloud services.  To protect data in transit and at rest, companies should implement a shared responsibility model, strict access rules, and encryption.