Evolving Technology – The Impact on Cybersecurity
Evolving technology is overtaking every part of our society today. Technology has an impact on every part of our life, from artificial intelligence to smart devices. However, cybercrime, identity theft, and data breaches are becoming more common as a result of increased connectivity.
Hackers can easily sneak into networks and steal confidential data using high-tech tools and software. They also demand ransomware from businesses, which costs them millions of dollars. If the company refuses to pay, thieves will publish the information on the internet.
As a result, all employee contact information, customer addresses, and company credit card information becomes available on the internet. Such damages are irreparable, in addition to jeopardizing the company’s reputation.
Here, we’ll look at four different ways that evolving technology affects cybersecurity.
1. Evolving Technology Increases Digital Data Security Issues
In today’s world, practically everything is digital. Entrepreneurs save data on cloud servers and manage their finances with accountancy software. People also save their important contact and payment card information on online purchasing websites.
All of this data is available through the use of passwords, yet it is stored on a shared network. As a result, hackers can get access to the network and steal important information, putting persons and businesses in danger.
To protect information on digital servers, everyone must use advanced security procedures. Individuals can avoid sharing data on open networks by using virtual private networks. In the same way, businesses can invest in cybersecurity specialists to combat these risks.
If hiring a specialist is too expensive, owners can enter the cybersecurity industry themselves. They can earn a master’s degree in cybersecurity online to boost the company’s information technology infrastructure.
2. Phishing With a Single Target
Phishing emails have been common in the past as a way for hackers to access information from individuals. However, with more people aware of these attacks, spear-phishing scams are becoming more popular. The goal of spear campaigns is to obtain financial benefits from businesses.
Fraudsters are on the lookout for trade secrets, financial data, and personal information. They go after the company’s personnel by making the email address appear to be from within the company.
An accountant, for example, might receive an email from the finance manager requesting the expected budgets. Employees then unknowingly provide the hackers with access to all confidential information. Because hackers can impersonate anyone to obtain information unlawfully, it poses a significant cybersecurity concern.
3. The Evolving Technology of Botnets
Botnets have long been known for spreading viruses and spam via email. Thanks to new technology, hackers now use powerful botnets to collect personal information. This technology can steal information such as a person’s name, age, credit card information, addresses, and passwords.
In addition to stealing their identities, the hackers then sell them on the dark web and other criminal websites.
Furthermore, hackers can use botnets to attack large organizations’ systems. With this technology, they can shut down networks and delete data, putting a company on the verge of bankruptcy. The only way to keep botnets out of the system is to implement strong cybersecurity safeguards.
4. Breach of Social Media Privacy
On social media sites, most people have a propensity of revealing a lot of information. They check in to various venues and enter their contact information without considering the possibilities for cyber-attacks. Social media platforms allow hackers to access your personal information as well as your precise location, jeopardizing your safety and assets.
Cybercriminals are also employing social media in their identity theft schemes. They send consumers discount coupons and complimentary vacation packages to get them to click on a link. As a result, dangerous codes and software are downloaded into users’ devices, revealing all passwords.
Experienced hackers can then use that information to gain access to your bank account and email account.
In today’s connected world, how does technology protect businesses?
Despite technology rendering everyone vulnerable to cyber dangers, it also provides methods to secure data and prevent assaults. It gives critical tools for surviving in the cyber ecosystem, allowing businesses to traverse the cyber terrain more effectively.
Here are a few examples of cutting-edge technology.
1. Big Data Technology
Big data can hold large amounts of data, which can aid cybersecurity researchers in detecting network anomalies. To identify system vulnerabilities and take preventive actions, they use real-time analytics and predictive modeling.
2. Artificial Intelligence Technology
Using AI as a solution has recently become a hot topic in cybersecurity. AI-enabled natural language processing systems collect data by scanning articles and news on cyber dangers. It then offers useful information, revealing the pattern of cyberattacks and mitigation techniques.
Similarly, AI devices can detect irregular patterns in a company’s system and inform the IT staff in advance of harmful behavior.
3. Blockchain Technology
As a centralized ledger, blockchain technology can prevent a variety of identity thefts, data breaches, and treachery in transactions. Edge Computing is protected by two-factor authentication and cutting-edge data integrity. Similarly, it provides secure messaging across shared networks, ensuring that information is not stolen by hackers.
Last Thoughts
Cyberattacks, data breaches, spear phishing, and botnets are all on the rise, putting the digital infrastructure at risk. Individuals and corporations must use inventive solutions to counteract these influences and preserve their data.
Some solutions include investing in cybersecurity, setting up effective firewalls across the board, and employing anti-malware tactics. A stable IT infrastructure and taking preventative actions against cyber threats can help to mitigate cyberattacks.
Image Credit: Faisal Rahman; Pexels; Thank you!
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