November 15, 2024
Looking ahead to 2025, four key areas demand the attention of cybersecurity decision-makers: AI in cybersecurity, IoT security, cloud security, and zero trust. Each of these areas presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly for medium-sized businesses navigating regulatory demands and skill gaps in cybersecurity. This post will explore these critical topics, offering insights on what organizations should prioritize to protect their digital assets.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly playing a dual role in cybersecurity. IBM’s 2024 Cost of a Data Breach Report showed that organizations that were “extensively using” AI for cybersecurity efforts saved $1.8M in the event of a data breach compared with organizations that were not using AI tools at the time of a breach.2
On the one hand, AI-powered tools can help defend networks with advanced threat detection, predictive analytics, and faster response times. AI can identify unusual patterns in massive datasets, alerting teams to potential threats before they escalate. In this way, AI serves as a force multiplier for security teams facing skill shortages by automating routine tasks and providing insights that humans might overlook.
However, AI also poses a growing threat when leveraged by cybercriminals. Attackers are using AI to create more convincing phishing scams, generate fake news, and even develop malware capable of evading detection. For instance, AI-generated deep-fake content is becoming a weapon for spreading disinformation and conducting social engineering attacks. The nature of AI underscores the need for robust regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with security.
The global number of connected IoT devices is expected to surpass 27 billion by 2027, per Palo Alto Networks.1 As more businesses adopt Internet of Things (IoT) devices, securing these often-vulnerable endpoints has become crucial. IoT devices frequently lack built-in security features, making them easy targets for attackers. They’re often set up with default credentials that bad actors can quickly figure out. A comprehensive approach to IoT security involves focusing on three key areas: secure design, incident response, and vulnerability management.
1. Secure Design: Organizations should procure IoT devices designed with security in mind, including strong authentication protocols, regular software updates, and encrypted communications.
2. Incident Response: With IoT devices interconnected in complex systems, having a well-defined incident response plan is essential to contain threats quickly and minimize damage.
3. Vulnerability Management: Proactively identifying and addressing vulnerabilities in IoT devices is vital to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate risks.
Regulatory frameworks are also putting more pressure on companies to ensure IoT security. In April 2024, the UK legally mandated cybersecurity standards for IoT devices.1
However, finding qualified professionals who understand IoT security protocols remains challenging. Our team’s expertise in IoT security can assist organizations in implementing effective measures that safeguard these systems.
Dewpoint partners with Phosphorus to offer protection for large-scale IoT device protection. With Phosphorus, thousands of IoT device IP addresses can be discovered in minutes. Contact our team to learn more about Phosphorus’s proprietary solution.
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As more organizations move data and services to the cloud, securing cloud environments has become essential. However, cloud security is complex due to the shared responsibility model: cloud providers are responsible for securing the infrastructure, while customers must secure their data and applications within that infrastructure.
This model requires organizations to have a strong understanding of cloud security best practices. Misconfigurations—often due to limited knowledge or lack of training—are among the leading causes of cloud data breaches. Additionally, as regulations around data privacy evolve, organizations face compliance challenges across multiple jurisdictions, each with unique requirements for data storage and protection.
Investing in ongoing cloud security assessments and training can help organizations address these challenges. Businesses must focus on securing their cloud assets by working closely with knowledgeable partners and developing internal skills to manage these environments effectively.
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The zero trust security model has gained significant attention as a method to reduce risk by assuming no user or device is trustworthy by default. Access is granted based on continuous verification, strict adherence to the principle of least privilege, and segmentation of networks to limit potential attack surfaces. Per the 2024 IBM Cost of a Data Breach Report, the average cost of a “malicious insider attack” was nearly $5M.2
1. Verification: Zero trust requires continuous user verification for every request, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access due to compromised credentials.
2. Least Privilege Access: Users are only given the access they need to perform their tasks, helping prevent lateral movement within networks if a breach occurs.
3. Network Segmentation: By dividing networks into smaller, secure segments, organizations can isolate sensitive data and contain threats more effectively.
Zero trust is especially recommended for remote and hybrid workforces. Additionally, it aligns with regulatory standards that require strict access controls, helping businesses meet compliance requirements while strengthening security.
As cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, IT leaders in medium-sized companies must stay proactive, adapting to emerging trends and ensuring their defenses are robust. AI in cybersecurity, IoT security, cloud security, and zero trust will be essential focus areas in 2025. By prioritizing these areas, businesses can protect their assets, stay compliant, and be better prepared for future challenges.
Our team’s expertise in IoT security and general IT security consulting can help organizations navigate this complex landscape with confidence. Contact our team today for more information on how we can support your cybersecurity needs.
Dewpoint, an award-winning, Michigan-based technology firm, has been helping businesses prepare for, stay ahead of, and respond to IT challenges for over 27 years. From IT security to infrastructure management to automation, cloud migration, and beyond, Dewpoint has long been a trusted technology resource for businesses.