From AI to the Internet of Things, cybersecurity is becoming more complex and sophisticated by the day. Staying ahead of emerging threats requires a proactive approach and a deep understanding of the latest trends. Let’s take a look at the key trends that we believe will shape 2025.
1. AI-driven cyberattacks
According to the VP of Google Cloud Security, 2025 is the first year that the world will see the second phase of AI in action with security. Both cybercriminals and cybersecurity experts will be leveraging it. Cybercriminals are increasingly using AI to develop sophisticated attacks, including advanced phishing schemes, deepfake frauds, and adaptive malware, making detection and mitigation more challenging. Attackers also use stolen data from the dark web to refine their targeting.
Do this:
- Educate staff about AI-driven threats and implement regular phishing simulations.
- Use AI-based security solutions capable of identifying and mitigating AI-powered attacks. Complement this with proactive dark web monitoring to detect leaked data and assess potential risks.
- Strengthen access controls to prevent unauthorised access resulting from AI-driven social engineering.
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) in cybersecurity
Luckily, AI and ML are also transforming cybersecurity by enabling advanced threat detection, automated responses, and predictive analytics. These technologies let systems learn from past incidents and adapt to new threats, enhancing overall security efficiency.
Do this:
- Adopt solutions that leverage AI and ML to detect anomalies and respond to threats in real-time. These tools also play an important role in forensic analysis and automating recovery steps post-incident.
- Ensure AI models are regularly updated with the latest threat intelligence to maintain effectiveness.
- Combine AI capabilities with human expertise to interpret complex threats and make informed decisions, especially when handling multi-faceted cyber incidents.
3. Zero trust architecture
Zero Trust was one of the most-used security words in 2024, and in 2025 the Zero Trust model will continue to be an important element in all security operations. It operates on the principle that no user or device is inherently trustworthy (especially in an age of AI) and requires strict identity verification, micro-segmentation, and continuous monitoring to secure networks against internal and external threats.
Do this:
- Implement policies that verify every access request, regardless of origin. Regular security assessments can identify gaps in controls, ensuring a robust Zero Trust framework.
- Divide networks into smaller segments to contain potential breaches.
- Deploy tools that provide real-time visibility into network activities and detect anomalies promptly.
4. Quantum-resistant encryption
The growing adoption of Generative AI and AI requires more computing power than ever before and so the focus on quantum computing is accelerating. Like all tech innovations, advancements in quantum computing pose potential cyber threats, specifically to current encryption methods. Developing and adopting quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms is essential to protect sensitive data from future quantum-enabled attacks.
Do this:
- Keep abreast of developments in quantum computing and emerging cryptographic standards.
- Evaluate current encryption methods and identify areas susceptible to quantum attacks.
- Develop a roadmap to implement quantum-resistant encryption as standards become available.
5. Internet of Things (IoT) security
The proliferation of IoT devices across every industry and sectors introduces new vulnerabilities to corporate cybersecurity that threat actors are increasingly exploiting because they are often less protected than traditional IT devices. Ensuring robust security protocols, device authentication, and regular firmware updates are crucial to protect IoT ecosystems from exploitation.
Do this:
- Ensure all IoT devices use secure authentication methods to prevent unauthorised access.
- Maintain up-to-date firmware and software on all devices to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Use advanced monitoring systems to detect and respond to suspicious activities in real-time, minimising risks within IoT ecosystems.
- Isolate IoT devices from critical systems to limit potential damage from compromised devices.
6. Supply chain security
Gartner estimates that by 2025, 45% of organisations worldwide will experience attacks on their software supply chains. Third-party supply chain attacks, where cybercriminals target less secure elements within a network to access larger systems, are clearly on the rise. Knowing who is in your supply chain, what data they hold, and what their risk is to your business is critical to mitigate these risks, as is implementing comprehensive security measures across all partners and vendors is vital to mitigate these risks.
Do this:
- Assess the security practices of all third-party vendors and partners through rigorous penetration testing and risk evaluations.
- Require suppliers to adhere to established cybersecurity standards and best practices.
- Regularly monitor third-party activities and access to detect and respond to potential threats.
7. Regulatory compliance and cyber insurance
With increasing cyber threats, regulatory bodies are imposing stricter cybersecurity standards. Businesses must stay informed about these regulations and consider cyber insurance to mitigate potential financial losses from cyber incidents.
Do this:
- Regularly review and comply with relevant cybersecurity laws and standards.
- Develop and maintain programs to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements. Comprehensive assessments aligned with frameworks like NIST can streamline compliance.
- Evaluate cyber insurance options to provide financial protection against potential breaches.
8. Cloud security evolution
As cloud adoption continues to accelerate, cloud security becomes a top priority. For decision makers, key focus areas should include securing cloud-native environments, addressing misconfigurations and data exposure risks, implementing advanced identity and access management for cloud resources, and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations in cloud environments.
Do this:
- Adopt security measures tailored to cloud-native applications and services.
- Regularly audit cloud configurations to prevent accidental data exposures. External risk assessments provide an attacker’s perspective, offering actionable insights.
- Implement robust Identity and Access Management (IAM) protocols to control access to cloud resources effectively.
- Adhere to data protection laws applicable to cloud-stored information.
9. Incident response readiness
The speed and effectiveness of incident response play a critical role in mitigating the impact of cyberattacks, and yet many businesses do not have 24/7 monitoring or emergency response protocols in place. Businesses must shift from reactive to proactive strategies to remain resilient.
Do this:
- Conduct regular cyber-attack simulations to evaluate readiness and improve response times.
- Leverage forensic tools and expertise to uncover vulnerabilities and strengthen defences post-incident.
- Align incident response plans with broader business continuity strategies to ensure swift recovery.
- Conduct table-top exercises to mentally prepare your staff for real-life cyber breaches.
How Cybercom can help
At Cybercom, we actively work with clients to improve their security posture and reduce their risk on key areas as part of an ongoing preventative program developed based on our experience specifically within the South African threat landscape as the largest local IR service provider. From penetration testing and tabletop simulations to deep digital forensics and dark web monitoring, we are ahead of the latest cyber threats and trends.