Time waits for no man and the last 12 months have truly shown that neither can technology or cybersecurity. Tech will not be held back. Governments, companies and individuals cannot stop the march of technological progress. Therefore as I sat down to pen this article for the third year in a row it was very clear to me that the last 12 months have seen such a huge advancement in technology that my predictions might need to be a bit bigger for technology in 2024!

You can read the previous year’s articles HERE and HERE.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Cybersecurity

Artificial Intelligence is set to play a pivotal role in cybersecurity. In 2024, we can expect AI to be more sophisticated in identifying and mitigating cyber threats. Machine learning algorithms will continuously adapt to new attack vectors, providing a dynamic defence mechanism. The integration of AI in security operations will enhance threat detection, response times, and overall resilience against cyber attacks. Because of this as business we need to be aware of how the providers of your technology are using AI and how the bad actors will also be using this. It is also going to be critical in 2024 to review where and what data is being held and used to train these AI models inside of your cybersecurity products.

Zero Trust Architecture

The concept of Zero Trust Architecture is gaining momentum as organizations recognize the need to move beyond traditional perimeter-based security. In 2024, expect more widespread adoption of Zero Trust principles, where trust is never assumed, and every user, device, and network interaction is thoroughly authenticated and authorized. This approach ensures a more robust defence against insider threats and external attacks. What this will really mean in 2024 is that the traditional edge and VPN systems many businesses have come to rely on since the pandemic will start to be replaced with ZTNA solutions.

Quantum-Safe Cryptography

With the advent of quantum computing, the cryptographic landscape is under threat. To counter this, 2024 will witness a surge in the implementation of quantum-safe cryptographic algorithms. Organizations will prioritize updating their cryptographic protocols to ensure that sensitive data remains secure even in the face of quantum advancements. This is a space to watch and an area of huge growth for security.

5G Security Challenges

As 5G networks become more prevalent, so do the security challenges associated with this technology. In 2024, expect a heightened focus on addressing the unique cybersecurity risks posed by 5G, including increased attack surfaces, potential for IoT vulnerabilities, and the need for robust encryption to protect data transmitted over these high-speed networks. Businesses that rely heavily on remote working and mobile working will need to be very aware of this and keep a close key on the risks in the area.

Ransomware Resilience

Ransomware attacks have been on the rise, and 2024 will be no exception. Organisations will increasingly invest in developing and implementing robust ransomware resilience strategies. This includes regular data backups, employee training programs, and the use of advanced threat intelligence to proactively identify and neutralize ransomware threats. For me there is only one answer to this and that will be that every business will need a full MDR (Manage Detection and Response) product in place looked after by a dedicated security team.

Biometric Authentication Advances

Biometric authentication is evolving beyond fingerprint and facial recognition. In 2024, we can anticipate advancements in behavioural biometrics, voice recognition, and other innovative authentication methods. These technologies offer a more secure and user-friendly approach to identity verification, reducing reliance on traditional password-based systems. This wont change the world in 2024, but will start to see the shift away from the standard passwords systems we are use to.

Regulatory Compliance and Privacy

With the growing emphasis on data privacy and protection, regulatory frameworks are continually evolving. In 2024, organizations will prioritize compliance with stringent data protection regulations. The focus will be on ensuring transparent data practices, implementing robust security measures, and demonstrating accountability in handling sensitive information.

Generative AI fuelled Social Engineering Attacks

When looking at looking at the risk profile of 2024, it is clear that the trajectory started in 2023 will continue with generative AI being used by bad actors to generate more believable , more dynamic and ultimately harder to detect social engineering attacks. It has been well documented that in 2023 around 80% of all attacks started with compromised identities and as we all continue to invest in better MFA technologies and drive brute force attacks from success the more we will see a direct pivot to using social engineering attacks to compromise the security practices we have in place.

Businesses must strive to educate their employees about the common ways to recognise they are being deceived, this cannot just happen once a year as a tick box exercise you need to be driving change with-in your business and adopting a clear training plan into 2024. Because of this it makes identity protection the most critical protection that companies should look to strengthen or invest in for 2024. Otherwise, adversaries will continually target and successfully comprise this weak spot.

Cost of Living and Financial Impacts on IT and Security Budget

We have seen some unpredictable and unprecedented global impacts over the last 4 years, these have all taken an impact on the global finances which in turn are now starting to reflect in the budgets of businesses across the UK and EMEA. Because of this in 2024 a trend we are all going to need to be aware of is the tightening on IT and Security budgets as the ever tightening purse strings will mean that businesses need to make better choices about where and how they spend money. In these scenarios you need to focus on how to make the most of what you have but also there will be a need to be strong on conveying the value to the wider business on investing or maintaining your IT and Security products and services.

Conclusion

As we step into 2024, the intersection of technology and cybersecurity promises both challenges and opportunities. Embracing innovative solutions, staying informed about emerging threats, and fostering a cybersecurity-conscious culture will be essential for individuals and organizations alike. By proactively addressing these trends, we can collectively build a safer and more resilient digital future.

If you want to talk to one of our experts about how we can help you with your planning for 2024 then please call 01235 433900 or you can email [email protected] or if you would like to speak to me directly you can reach out to me via DM or at [email protected].