Blogs

Critical Start CRU predicts the rapid evolution of cybercrime, along with the increasing use of APT tactics by cybercriminals, is set to significantly impact the cybersecurity landscape in 2024. Cybercriminals are expected to further refine their APT techniques, complicating detection, and mitigation. This refinement may involve using artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced social engineering in spear-phishing campaigns.

Critical Start CRU predicts the sophistication of Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) is expected to rise due to the demand for more powerful attack tools, posing challenges for cybersecurity professionals and requiring advancements in defense strategies. These MaaS offerings will introduce new and adaptive attack vectors, such as advanced phishing schemes and polymorphic malware that continually evolves to evade detection.

Critical Start Cyber Research Unit (CRU) predicts a rise in AI-powered cyber threats, with criminals using AI to launch more sophisticated and deceptive email attacks. This means businesses and individuals must constantly adapt their email security measures to stay ahead of evolving threats, including AI-driven phishing and business email compromise (BEC). Additionally, the growing use of fraudulent AI bots distributing malware will make it harder for users to distinguish legitimate applications from malicious ones, posing significant challenges for cybersecurity.

Critical Start Cyber Research Unit (CRU) predicts a rise in cyber threats, driven by the ongoing global conflicts exerting a profound influence in the cyber domain. As states navigate international relations and conflicts, the role of cyber capabilities in espionage, warfare, and influence will expand.

Critical Start Cyber Research Unit (CRU) predicts the concealment of malicious traffic within cloud storage platforms, while not a new concept, is poised for further innovation. Critical Start anticipates that threat actors will escalate their use of popular cloud platforms to obscure their malevolent actions. This approach not only bolsters their data theft efficiency but also serves to undermine established security mechanisms and defenses.

CISO Perspectives

As we step into the future, the role of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) is undergoing a transformative shift, propelled by the relentless evolution of cybersecurity threats. The landscape demands a proactive and strategic approach, and CISOs are emerging as crucial leaders in this battle for digital resilience. Let's explore the anticipated trends and priorities that will shape the cybersecurity realm in the next 12-24 months.

In response to the dynamic and evolving cybersecurity landscape, Critical Start invites you to watch our webinar recording to hear from our CTO Randy Watkins and Cyber Threat Intelligence Analyst Sarah Jones as they explore key learnings from 2023's cybersecurity trends, and insights into future predictions for 2024 and beyond.

Cyber Risks Over Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Black Friday and Cyber Monday, synonymous with remarkable deals and heightened shopping activity, now extend beyond traditional retail, evolving into a battleground for cyber threats. The rapid digitization of commerce transforms these events into both a shopping extravaganza and a zone of substantial risk for consumers and businesses. Amidst the excitement of discounts, cybersecurity concerns loom large, demanding attention and preparedness.

Background

Cybercriminals exploit weekends and holidays when organizations are understaffed, often targeting weakened human defenses with ransomware attacks. The evasive nature of such attacks allows perpetrators to maximize damage and data theft, taking advantage of rushed security responses. With staffing levels below 33% during holidays and weekends, cybercriminals find increased success and are encouraged to be more aggressive, fueling the expansion of criminal enterprises.

Background

During the holiday season, deceptive websites surge with nearly 78% of individuals encountering brand impersonation scams as threat actors impersonate legitimate ones to deceive users. These fraudulent sites mimic banks, eCommerce platforms, and trusted entities using tactics like cloning, mirroring, typosquatting, brandjacking, and scareware to ensnare users.

Background

The holiday season ushers in celebration, joy, and heightened demand for businesses worldwide. Yet, it also exposes organizations to software supply chain vulnerabilities that can disrupt their operations. Unlike conventional cyberattacks that directly target end-users, software supply chain attacks involve hackers exploiting weaknesses within existing software supply chains.

Background

The hospitality sector, integral to holiday experiences, faces distinct challenges during the festive season. Its growing reliance on technology and online services has increased its vulnerability to cybersecurity threats, which could lead to severe consequences. These risks encompass a wide range of security issues, including data breaches and ransomware attacks, capable of disrupting operations, compromising customer data, and tarnishing a brand's reputation.