Chuck Muizers Shares Top Cybersecurity Threats to Be Aware of in 2023 | Avonak, TX

A new year is nearly upon us, so now is the perfect time to begin checking and triple-checking our cybersecurity measures. Every new year brings recent trends — and newer threats to contend with.

One way to predict the biggest cybersecurity risks of next year is to look at what we most commonly faced this year. We should also consider rising technologies and how criminals may use them to their advantage.

With that in mind, here are the biggest cybersecurity threats to be aware of in 2023.

Critical Infrastructure Attacks

Hackers and criminals have always gone for the big targets — the attacks that either make a name for themselves or give them lots of money. As such, we should prepare for more attacks against critical infrastructure.

These attacks have risen in recent years and should not be taken lightly. For example, one attack took down the Colonial Pipeline System in 2021. Unfortunately, this was not the first attack of its kind, nor will it be the last.

Ransomware Attacks

Ransomware has also been rising recently, especially as it has proven highly successful and lucrative. Ransomware is malicious software designed to block, encrypt, or lock companies out of their own systems. The company or individual is held hostage and forced to pay the attackers a ransom before gaining access to their systems.

Naturally, there are already recommended procedures to help prevent such an attack. It is critical to prepare for these measures and have a security system. Additionally, be sure to follow all recommended security practices.

Phishing

Phishing is another cause for concern in 2023 . Phishing is a form of social engineering, which means software can only do so much to prevent it. Phishing occurs when an individual (employee) mistakenly believes an email is legitimate and provides sensitive information to an untrustworthy party.

For example, a phishing email may target an employee, asking them to reset their password. The employee is prompted to provide their username and current password by clicking on the link before supposedly updating their password. The employee has effectively given out their login information by filling these fields out.

The best way to prevent phishing attacks is through increasing and continuous awareness. This means regular training sessions and reminders to all employees of the risk of phishing. There should also be guides on how to spot such emails.

Originally published at https://chuckmuizers.com on December 15, 2022.