Proliferation of devices = increased cybersecurity risk
Earlier in 2024, we witnessed the proliferation of more smart technologies and IoT devices, which helped cybercriminals breach vulnerabilities through advanced tactics like ransomware, phishing and AI-powered attacks.
Economic and social impacts
A cybersecurity breach can be catastrophic. For businesses, it can lead to substantial financial losses, reputational damage and regulatory penalties. For individuals, it poses risks, such as identity theft and personal data exposure, and has broader social implications that include eroded public trust in digital and governmental institutions.
The role (rise) of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence or AI is shaping the future of cybersecurity by enhancing threat detection and response. However, it also equips adversaries with powerful tools for attacks. Balancing the benefits and risks of AI in cybersecurity was a critical challenge we saw for 2024 and one we will continue to see for the remaining months of the year. However, the integration of AI into cybersecurity practices also raises concerns, particularly for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), regarding potential data leakage.
- AI model vulnerability: AI-driven security systems rely on data to learn and make decisions. The data used to train these AI models can be sensitive, and if these models are exposed or tampered with, it could lead to data leakage.
- Decision transparency: AI systems often operate as "black boxes," meaning their decision-making processes are not always transparent. This lack of visibility can make it difficult for CISOs to understand how data is being processed and protected, potentially leading to oversight gaps where data leakage could occur unnoticed.
- Data poisoning: Attackers may manipulate the data used to train AI models in a cybersecurity context, leading to flawed learning processes. This "poisoning" can cause the AI to malfunction or leak data unintentionally.
- Insider threats: AI tools that access and analyze vast amounts of organizational data can become vectors for insider threats. Malicious insiders could potentially exploit AI systems to exfiltrate sensitive information deliberately.
- Compliance and regulatory challenges: CISOs must ensure that their use of AI in cybersecurity complies with data protection regulations, such as GDPR, HIPAA or CCPA. Mismanagement of AI tools or the data they process can lead to regulatory violations and data breaches.
- Integration with existing systems: The integration of AI into existing cybersecurity infrastructures can be complex and risky. Misconfigurations during integration can create new vulnerabilities and potential points for data leakage.
- The role of other technological breakthroughs: In recent years, there have been several major technological developments, such as network virtualization in the cloud, the Internet’s gradual replacement of highly profitable private corporate networks, opportunities for 5G connectivity on large sites and campuses and even Generative Artificial Intelligence, which is already transforming, and will increasingly impact, business processes over the next decade.
What can my organization do?
Well, plenty; but small steps for a start. It’s all about acknowledging that cybersecurity is a strategic imperative, since the challenge of maintaining an effective cybersecurity posture may be relegated to a backburner. The reason’s simple – an organization needs to focus on its daily operations, revenue and sales income, manpower issues, and a host of other business matters, which leaves cybersecurity on the lower rungs of the priority list.
But this should no longer happen, especially when you are aware of the potential risks your organization runs into when defenses are weak and there are loopholes to be exploited. Fortunately, you don’t have to manage your own cybersecurity solutions; safeguarding your digital assets is best left to the expertise of a trusted managed services provider.
Depending on your cybersecurity profile, challenges and where you are on your digital journey, a trusted and reliable provider can ensure your business resilience and continuity and respond to cyberattacks swiftly and effectively. The Orange Business cybersecurity solutions include:
- Proactive threat monitoring: Round-the-clock surveillance to detect and respond to threats in real time
- Risk management solutions: Tailored strategies to minimize your specific vulnerabilities
- Compliance and governance: Ensuring your business meets all regulatory requirements with ease
Our ever-increasing digital interconnectivity makes robust cybersecurity more urgent in 2024 than ever. You need to start planning now, if you're not already, to avoid a cybersecurity breach that could damage your business. Contact Orange Business today to discuss your cybersecurity stance, so you can stay focused on your organization’s growth and innovation.
Mayank Sharma is a Senior Security Specialist at Orange Business India, possessing over a decade of experience in leading cybersecurity practices and building transformation strategies. He is committed towards securing organizations’ networks and data and supporting their digital transformation journeys.