Cyber Security is no longer a PC concern but has taken over mobile and cloud-based networks this year. Coupled with increased security risks and breaches at top firms and Fortune 500 companies, 2016 will be a year of change and revelations
1. Knowledge And Resources For Mobile Cyber Security
New trends such as Bring Your Own Device(BYOD) and businesses that use mobile only devices have left gaping holes for social engineers and cyber criminals to slither through. More than 80 percent of smartphones aren't protected from malware.
This gives cyber security software firms an opportunity to expand and offer up resources for personal mobile device users and businesses who have implemented this new work culture.
2. Savvy Cyber Attackers Will Be Invading Mobile Devices
The tides are beginning to turn the online crime ring into a mobile battlefield. More and more criminals have already started to hack into mobile devices. While awareness is increasing there is still work to do. Tools like GPS tracking and open WIFI networks have become breeding grounds for sly hackers to collect information from unsuspecting smartphone and tablet users.
3. Cloud Overhaul
While cloud-based networks have seen growth many entities are fearful that sharing and saving information over these networks can mean added security risks.
New technology and innovations in visualization and transparency of these networks will help usher in next-generation security services that specialize in cloud security. But, these overhauls could mean increased budget spending.
4. Cyberlanties and Hacktivists
The influx of hacking for a cause will carry into the New Year. Niche groups of sophisticated hackers will begin to break into organizations that they disagree with and stir up trouble.
In some circles, the days of social protest have gone digital. Activists are making world-wide statements by breaking into personal accounts of institutions and shaking things ups. These individuals are usually trying to exercise their rights to free speech and are pushing political agendas.
5. Attackers Will Come From the Inside, But Will Be Found Out
It should come as no surprise that attacks often times come from employees working for the business affected. These individuals, at their core are social engineers, looking to exploit those around them.
Malware and spear-phishing are tactics that these social engineers will use to trick their victims into opening emails, downloading plug-ins and apps that contain malicious content.
Businesses will arm their employees with security awareness training and provide multiple factor authenticators to ensure that unauthorized personnel aren't accessing sensitive areas and data. These training sessions will equip employees and executives with the proper tools so they verify, and think twice before opening emails or allowing unauthorized access to secure data.
6. Multi Factor Authentication Will Become More Popular
This is the process of requiring two or more steps to indentify a person trying to access a network, secure area or files. Experts believe this will reduce the incidents of identity theft, online fraud and so forth.
Some institutions have been implementing three-step authentication in which a password, a physical item, such as a special token and biometric logins, which can range from fingerprint to eye scans are put in place to thwart hackers and social engineers.
7. Protecting Ourselves
It took a few years, but people are finally realizing that cyber crimes and identity theft can happen to them. So, we are taking great measures to protect ourselves. Brands are starting to jump on the bandwagon too, with products that will already feature security options and protection software.
Cyber criminals will not leave any stone unturned and will flock to social sites€"no matter how small. This has left many social network users rushing to change their names and city addresses on social sites. Real names, cities and hometowns will be ditched for aliases and pseudo names.
All a hacker has to do is find out your name and address, who your mother is, what your hobbies and likes are, then send you an email with an embedded link and PRESTO they can take over your identity within the blink of an eye.
Conclusion
In an "Internet of Things" world, being knowledgeable about threats and trends within the cyber security sector will not only save you money, but will give you an added peace of mind as you, your business and loved ones venture into the upcoming year.