The cyber landscape is more turbulent than ever, with Microsoft reporting a 2.75-fold increase in ransomware attempts this year and global cyber attacks predicted to surge 105% compared to 2020. The need for qualified cyber professionals is dire, as generative AI is lowering the barrier to entry for attacks. Unfortunately, cyber skills gaps have been reported in both the U.K. and Australia, with women making up only a quarter of the industry.
Looking ahead to 2025, TechRepublic asked cyber experts to predict the top trends impacting the security field. Here are some key insights:
1. Renewed focus on third-party risk management, including the AI software supply chain: Forrester analysts predict that governments will ban certain third-party software in 2025 due to the prevalence of supply chain attacks. More companies are using Generative AI to code new software, which could open it up to weaknesses.
2. Macs will become more targeted by cybercriminals: Experts say that Macs will become even more of a target for cybercriminals in the next year, with a notable spike in macOS-targeted stealer malware.
3. Identity to shift into the jurisdiction of security teams: Responsibility for identity and access management within companies is predicted to shift from IT departments to security teams in 2025.
4. Cyber regulations will divide countries: Global cyber regulations are becoming stricter, focusing on geopolitics and national security interests. Decision-makers should strengthen international collaboration rather than create more division.
5. Specific employees targeted via social media and AI: Experts predict that specific employees will continue to be targeted via social media and AI, with AI-enhanced malicious attacks being the top emerging business risk.
As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that the cybersecurity landscape will continue to evolve, presenting new challenges and opportunities for organizations worldwide.