As we move into 2023, the cybersecurity landscape is likely to continue evolving and changing. New technologies and threats will emerge, presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses and individuals. Here are some key trends and developments to look out for in the coming year.
Increased use of artificial intelligence (AI)
AI has already begun to play a significant role in cybersecurity, and this trend is set to continue in 2023. AI algorithms can be used to detect and respond to threats in real-time, and they are also capable of learning and adapting to new threats.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used by businesses in a wide range of applications, and new uses for the technology are constantly being developed. Some of the most promising new ways AI is being used by businesses in relation to cybersecurity include:
- Predictive analytics: Predictive analytics can be used in cybersecurity to analyze large amounts of data and make predictions about potential security threats or vulnerabilities. This can help businesses and organizations to proactively identify and mitigate potential risks before they occur. For example, a predictive analytics system might analyze data on past cyber attacks and identify patterns or trends that could be used to predict future attacks. It might also analyze data on the behavior of users within an organization to identify unusual activity that could indicate a potential security threat.
- AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can be used to improve customer service in the field of cybersecurity by providing instant, personalized responses to customer queries and requests. For example, a chatbot might be used to provide information on how to protect against cyber threats, or to troubleshoot problems with security software. It’s true that by using AI-powered customer service tools, businesses and organizations can improve the customer experience and reduce the need for human customer service staff, which can help to save time and resources. However, it is important to ensure that these tools are properly secured and configured to prevent them from being exploited by attackers or used to access sensitive information.
- Supply chain management: AI algorithms can be used to optimize supply chain management by analyzing data and making predictions about demand, production, and logistics. This can help businesses and organizations to more efficiently manage their supply chains and reduce costs by identifying bottlenecks and inefficiencies. In addition, AI can be used to monitor the supply chain for potential vulnerabilities or risks that could compromise the security of the products or services being supplied. For example, an AI system might be used to identify suppliers that are not following proper security protocols, or to detect potential tampering with products as they move through the supply chain.
- Cybersecurity: AI is being used to enhance cybersecurity by detecting and responding to threats in real-time, and by analyzing user behavior to identify patterns that may indicate a security breach. This can help businesses to protect their data and systems from cyber attacks. Software powered by AI can fulfill a variety of tasks, like intrusion detection and prevention; fraud detection and prevention; vulnerability management; endpoint protection; network security monitoring; and data loss prevention. Some brands that are using AI for their software include CrowdStrike, Darktrace, Cynet, FireEye, Check Point, Symantec, Sophos, and Fortinet.
Overall, AI is being used in countless ways already, and the use of the technology is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. AI market size is expected to increase by at least 120% year-over-year from 2022 to 2026. Furthermore, Statista reports a global market size of $327.5 billion for AI technologies as of 2021, but AI market share in the US is expected to value $190.61 billion by 2025. As AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative uses for the technology in the business world.
More sophisticated cyber attacks
As technology continues to advance, so do the methods used by hackers and other cybercriminals. In 2023, we can unfortunately expect to see more sophisticated attacks that are designed to evade detection and cause greater damage.
Some of the most significant threats to be prepared for in 2023 include:
- Ransomware: Ransomware attacks involve encrypting a victim’s data and demanding payment in exchange for the decryption key. In 2023, we may see more sophisticated ransomware attacks, possibly involving the use of AI.
- Phishing: Phishing attacks involve using fake emails or websites to trick victims into revealing sensitive information, such as passwords or financial data. Next year, experts suggest phishing attacks will continue to rise and become more advanced, tricking victims in new and nefarious ways.
- DDoS attacks: DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks involve overwhelming a website or online service with traffic in order to disrupt its operation. These attacks will likely become more powerful and sophisticated, causing greater disruption, in the new year.
- AI-powered attacks: Once again, as AI technology continues to advance, we can expect to see the emergence of even more AI-powered cyber attacks. These attacks may be more difficult to detect and defend against, as they may be able to adapt and evolve more quickly than traditional attacks. For instance, AI will make deepfake scams even easier. These are attacks that use AI-generated fake images or videos to deceive or manipulate individuals. An attacker might use a deepfake video to impersonate a high-ranking executive and send fake instructions to employees. Phishing will be even easier with AI; the technology can generate highly personalized phishing attacks that are more difficult for individuals to recognize as fake. Perhaps even scarier is the risk that AI can be used to coordinate and amplify DDoS attacks, making them more difficult to defend against.
Overall, it is crucial for businesses and individuals to be prepared for the evolving threat landscape of 2023. This may involve investing in robust cybersecurity measures, implementing strong password policies, and regularly updating software and security systems. Additionally, it may be helpful to work with a cybersecurity expert who can provide expert advice and guidance on how to stay safe online.
AI can be used to enhance the effectiveness of SOC-as-a-Service by automating certain tasks and processes, such as data analysis and threat detection. For example, an AI-powered system might be used to analyze large amounts of data from multiple sources, such as network logs and security devices, to identify patterns or indicators of potential security threats. This can help SOC teams to more quickly and accurately identify and respond to security incidents, and to prioritize the most critical threats.
In addition, AI can be used to automate certain aspects of incident response, such as identifying the root cause of an incident and suggesting appropriate remediation steps. This can help to reduce the time and resources required to resolve security incidents, and to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the SOC.
Preparing for Cyber Threats in 2023
To prepare for the changing landscape of cyber threats, businesses and individuals should take steps to stay informed and take proactive measures to protect their data and systems. This may include investing in robust cybersecurity measures, implementing strong password policies, and regularly updating software and security systems.
Additionally, it may be helpful to work with a cybersecurity expert who can provide expert advice and guidance on how to stay safe online. TAG Solutions has over 30 years of experience as an Albany, NY managed service provider and would welcome the opportunity to assist your business as you plan network management and unified communications for 2023! Contact us today!