As persistent and evolving cyber attacks continue to haunt organisations, Veeam finds that cybersecurity threats remain to be the top organisational challenge in 2024.
The recent Veeam Ransomware Trends Report found that 87% of organisations have a risk management program. However, 65% of respondents lack confidence that these programs work well for their organisations, more than half (52%) seek to improve, and 13% do not have an established program.
AI-fueled security challenge
Anthony Spiteri, the Regional CTO APJ at Veeam, says that security challenges are fueled by AI technologies.
“The adoption of AI and machine learning technologies, fuelled by ongoing hype, has further heightened concerns about security and data privacy. Policymakers are responding with increased regulations and controls to ensure responsible AI usage. The unsettling instances of deep fakes, such as the unauthorised use of a celebrity’s likeness in scams, underscore the risks associated with these AI-generated creations as they increase the effectiveness of phishing attacks and thus entry paths to ransomware,” he says.
Strengthening cyber resilience
To strengthen organisations’ resilience against cyber attacks, Spiteri recommends actively engaging employees in maintaining a secure environment through regular training and upskilling programs.
Training and awareness programs allow employees across various departments to recognise phishing emails, flag suspicious links, and develop education and awareness on cyber resilience.
He also recommends complementing awareness campaigns with AI to fight against cyber threats. Generative AI can analyse data and detect ransomware.
“The shadow of cybersecurity threats still looms. All signs point to larger and more sophisticated attacks, making AI integration and employee cybersecurity education imperative,” adds Spiteri.