As we step into the new year, it’s important to look ahead and anticipate the cybersecurity trends that will shape the landscape in 2022. While some of these trends may not be positive, they will certainly have a significant impact on the world of cybersecurity.
Continued Development of Web 3.0
Web 3.0 is a broad term that encompasses various technologies such as cryptocurrency, NFTs, and DAOs. While some may view cryptocurrency as a scam, cybercriminals have increasingly targeted the cryptocurrency infrastructure and its users. In 2021, the FBI reported over 20 incidents where at least $10 million was stolen in digital currencies from exchanges or projects. Platforms and offerings built on Web 3.0 will need to improve their security measures, and users must remain vigilant against social engineering attacks.
Extortion on Steroids
Ransomware has been a prevalent issue in recent years, with cybercriminals resorting to double, triple, and even quintuple extortion tactics. This trend is likely to continue growing, with criminals adopting more innovative ways to extort organizations. It is crucial for businesses to proactively enhance their security measures to safeguard against such threats.
Eye for an Eye; Hack for a Hack
There is a growing appetite among organizations to retaliate against attackers, leading to the potential for misguided hack-back attempts. Incorrect attribution of attacks could result in major international incidents and scrutiny on the responsible organization. It is essential for organizations to exercise caution and conduct thorough investigations before taking retaliatory action.
The Rise of a Dark Economy (Mergers & Acquisitions)
Criminal organizations have amassed significant wealth, leading to the emergence of a more formalized dark economy. Some gangs may engage in mergers and acquisitions to either cash in on their organization or expand their capabilities and reach. The dark economy may evolve to the point where it becomes a hub for cryptocurrency investments.
While I may not possess psychic abilities just yet, my observations of the cybersecurity landscape over the past 30 years have taught me that anything is possible in this industry. By staying informed and proactive, organizations can better prepare themselves for the cybersecurity challenges that lie ahead in 2022.