3 Cyber Security Trends this 2024 You Need to be Aware of

The cyber security industry in Australia faced a lot of challenges back in 2023, as cyber criminals launched more frequent and sophisticated attacks. For instance, organisations like Latitude, Nissan Australia, and Wollongong University all suffered from cyber attacks this year, causing significant data breaches and reputational damage. Attackers have also started harnessing the power of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to create cyber threats that can bypass security software.

This 2024, it’s safe to assume that cyber threats will continue to evolve and exploit the vulnerabilities of the digital world. In this blog, we will list down cyber security trends everyone must be aware of. We will also discuss how taking a cyber security course with Lumify Learn can help you stay ahead of threats and help protect individuals and businesses.

What Are Some Cyber Security Trends to Expect This 2024?

1. Increased use of AI

AI is set to play a bigger role in both cyber defense and offense, as it can help automate and enhance threat detection, response, and prevention. It can also be used to create new forms of cyber attacks that can bypass traditional security measures.

For example, this burgeoning technology can help analyse vast datasets and identify patterns, anomalies, and deviations that may indicate potential threats. It can predict future cyber attacks as well by using historical data and current trends. However, AI can be exploited by threat actors to instantly create new malware and ransomware variants, use deepfake technology to conduct phishing and other social engineering attacks, and create malicious software that can instantly evade detection.

As such, it is important for businesses to implement robust cyber security measures while remaining vigilant about potential risks. These include using AI-based tools to automate and enhance threat detection and response, applying zero trust principles to limit access and privileges, and training employees on how to avoid phishing, malware, and social engineering attacks.

2. More complicated ransomware attacks

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim’s data or system and prohibits access to it unless a ransom is paid, typically in cryptocurrency. This disrupts the operations and services of businesses, especially those in critical infrastructure sectors, and causes significant financial and reputational losses.

Currently, Australia is one of the top destinations globally for ransomware attacks, and the trend is expected to continue next year. Cyber criminals have improved their game as well and made it more difficult for victims to prevent or mitigate attacks. Here’s what we can expect when it comes to ransomware in 2024:

• Triple extortion: In the past, threat actors behind ransomware attacks only encrypted data found on their victim’s system and demanded money. However, some of them are now also stealing the data and exfiltrating it to a separate location. Others have even gone as far as threatening to leak sensitive data to the public unless a ransom is paid.

• Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): It’s no longer just experienced hackers who can create and launch ransomware attacks. With RaaS, anyone can purchase ransomware tools and services from the dark web and carry out their own attacks, without needing any technical skills or infrastructure.

• Attacks on unpatched systems: While this is not exactly a new issue, cyber criminals continue to exploit unpatched systems to gain unauthorised access to sensitive data and launch malware attacks. This shows the importance of installing security patches as soon as they are made available.

3. More frequent attacks on mid-sized businesses

Mid-sized businesses are expected to become the targets of interest for cyber criminals this 2024. According to Rob Dooley, VP of Asia-Pacific and Japan of software company Rapid7, a lack of proper cyber security competencies and resources will make these organisations easier targets than larger businesses in Australia who are better-equipped at protecting themselves from cyber threats.

Dooley says this is because it’s not economically feasible for mid-sized businesses to have more than two or three people in their cyber security team. As such, threat actors can easily exploit their vulnerabilities and launch ransomware or malware attacks, causing disruption, data breaches, and financial losses.

Invest in Your Cyber Security Knowledge with Lumify Learn

The demand for cyber security professionals has never been higher as cyber crime becomes more sophisticated and diverse. Coincidentally, Australia currently faces a notable cyber security skills gap, with a shortage of qualified experts hindering the nation's ability to effectively combat the escalating cyber threats. Closing this gap is crucial for enhancing national cyber security resilience.

If you want to play a pivotal role in fortifying Australia's security landscape and start a rewarding and lucrative career in cyber security, why not take a course with Lumify Learn? We offer the following classes:

• Certified Cyber Security Professional: Under this course, you will acquire the skills to troubleshoot, configure, and manage both wired and wireless networks effectively. Additionally, you will learn to implement the latest best practices in preventing and addressing cyber threats, enhancing baseline security readiness, and refining incident response strategies.

• ICT30120 Certificate III in Information Technology Elective Focus Basic Cyber Security Awareness: This foundational course provides an understanding of common IT skills and concepts, focusing on securing computer operating systems, networks, and data from cyber threats.

• ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology (Cyber Security): Focusing on designing systems that prepare for and handle cyber threats, this diploma program helps aspiring cyber security engineers enhance workplace security awareness.

• CompTIA PenTest+ Certified Professional: This self-paced online bootcamp course will provide you with hands-on, practical experience in penetration testing. It will also help you acquire the CompTIA PenTest+ certification, a globally recognised certification. This can help you gain access to career opportunities around the world.

All these courses are conducted 100% online, allowing you to balance your studies with your professional and personal life. Our trainers will also guide you in the practical application of lessons in real-world scenarios. Finally, once you complete a course, you can join our Lumify Edge program, which equips you with the resources needed to get ready for the job market and network with employers seeking IT professionals.

Ready to make a difference in the cyber security field this 2024? Enquire with us on a course today.