Cyber security threats are constantly on the rise. Security solution providers, as well as IT managers everywhere, are trying to stay ahead of the threat and minimize risk. But, what do the experts believe will be the biggest threats for 2017? We recently reviewed the article “10 Security Predictions for 2017,” published in CRN and found the following predictions for the threats we will face in the coming year. Interestingly enough, many of these predictions were major topics of conversation at the latest RSA Conference in San Francisco, February 13-17. The threats are real and the conversations are imperative in order to inspire innovative solutions that mitigate risks and stop criminals in their tracks.
More Attacks on IoT Connected Devices
One of the most troubling security events of 2016 was the October denial-of-service attack that used connected baby monitors as an entry point. Unfortunately, this was likely just a precursor of events closer to home with the number of IoT devices on the rise it gives hackers more avenues for attack.
A complicating factor is that many IoT consumers are unaware of the new threat vectors posed by their seemingly innocent connected devices. Although securing IoT devices, services and solutions has always been a major concern, the proliferation of attacks will escalate the conversation and drive security experts to stay ahead of threats in 2017. The question remains, how can we protect against these attacks and where can tighter security most easily be injected? Will it be at the data collection point? Or, will service providers tighten security on edge equipment? Either way, it offers risk and opportunity for everyone involved.
Your Computer Held for Ransom
Ransomware is one of the most pernicious security risks there is. It involves putting encryption on your devices that will only be removed once you pay the hacker’s desired ransom. Last year, there were major ransomware attacks on important services like hospitals and banks, and 2017 looks to be no better. For IT managers in these and other industries dealing in large amounts of customer data, it’s time to bulk up your security to limit the possibility of ransomware attacks.
Maybe more concerning is the variant of crypto-ransomware. In this scenario a user's files are encrypted making them unreadable by either the user or the device. Once infected, users are prompted to pay the ransom to acquire the decryption key required to unscramble the files. The code is typically delivered through malware via an email or malicious website. These attacks have become more prevalent likely due to the fact that they are quicker and easier for the criminal to administer.
Critical Infrastructure Vulnerabilities
Multiple critical infrastructure attacks occurred in 2016 shedding light on the need to secure industrial control and operational technology systems.These systems are hard to secure as they are complicated by legacy devices and unique and proprietary protocols. Servicing this market will likely require custom solutions.
Every Increasing Attack Complexity
As technological systems that we use become more and more advanced, so do the attacks against these systems. In the past, a system could be compromised by something as simple as a Word macro. Today, cyber attacks often involve complicated code combined with social engineering to determine a delivery mechanism. The threat is even shifting from the typical enterprise environment to now encompass small businesses that are less protected.
Platform Security
Unfortunately, for many companies, IT security is not centralized. They have a vendor for malware, a vendor for antivirus protection and possibly a firewall appliance. However, this can lead to weaknesses in your security, which is why many vendors are shifting their focus to integrated solutions. Expect to see solutions that cover the entire gamut from protection to detection and incident response within a specific segment.
Government Involvement
Until recently, the government has not been overtly involved in IT security concerns. In 2015 however, lawmakers began to take notice of just how critical cyber security is and how the need for government involvement in security policy is rising. In light of the breaches of the DNC and the fight between Apple and the FBI, you should expect more public policy related to IT security in 2017.
Installation of Shelfware
Businesses tend to react very quickly to problems. When they see major security issues, they push for immediate solutions. Regrettably, because of how quickly technology advances, many security solutions are never implemented and instead end up sitting unused. This is known as shelfware.
Because developing security solutions is a big investment, 2017 will see more and more businesses looking for partners to help them implement their security solutions in a timely manner.
Analytics and Security
Data analysis and security is a natural partnership. Using data analytics can help you understand potential security threats and possible solutions. One of the biggest security trends of 2017 will be the increased usage of analytics for the express purpose of improving IT security.
Leverage a Trusted Partner to Deliver Your Security Solution in Any Environment
When any industry faces such an enormous need and demand for solutions, growth for those that can deliver is a much expected outcome. Work with a global value integrator that can scale with your business and deliver when it is most critical. Visit unicomengineering.com today to learn more about the platforms and services that will optimize your application and drive performance.