“Digital security is being reframed as enabling humans’ capacity to trust each other, technology and institutions at the speed of innovation.”
Cyber security is no longer just about protecting against cyber-attacks. It is also moving toward building trust in the digital ecosystem. That involves promoting responsible technology use, a culture of security awareness, business innovation, and effective collaboration. We all know cyber security services are important. But what else will unravel in 2024 in the cyber security landscape? Here’s what you should know about.
#1: Increased Use of AI and ML
Expect more artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) being used for cyber security solutions. That includes automating threat detection and response, and improving the accuracy of threat detection. AI and ML can analyse large amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies that may indicate a cyber-attack. That only means cyber threat detection and response will become much quicker and more effective. AI and ML can be used to analyse email content for identification of suspicious links or attachments, so phishing can be more easily detected. Malware attacks are also easier to notice thanks to network traffic analysing and identification of suspicious behaviour. AI and ML can also be used to automate incident response processes and identify vulnerabilities in software and hardware. By investing in AI and ML solutions, Perth businesses can improve their cyber security posture and reduce the risk of cyber-attacks.
# 2: Greater Emphasis on Cloud Computing & Cloud Security
More Australian businesses will be adopting cloud computing and cloud security. According to a report by Gartner, spending on cloud security is expected to increase by more than 24%. Organisations are after cloud computing’s potential benefits such as cost savings and improved business outcomes for organisations. By investing in cloud security, your business can enhance its cyber security posture. It can help protect your data from unauthorised access, detect and respond to cyber threats more quickly, and ensure regulatory compliance. Cloud security solutions can also help your business to manage security risks more effectively. With cloud-based security solutions, you can harness the latest security technologies and best practices without having to invest in expensive hardware or software. Cloud security can also help you to identify and address potential vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
# 3: The Rise of Quantum Computing
Quantum computers use unprecedented computational power in solving a highly complex problem in just seconds, when a classical computer would take billions of years to solve it. Quantum computing can revolutionise the computing industry and has the potential to impact cybersecurity when used in:
- Encryption methods
- Anomaly detection and response
- Authentication methods
While it poses a risk to data and systems that rely on cryptographic protocols, quantum computing can also be used to enhance cyber protection. Encryption algorithms are already being developed to be resilient to quantum computing-driven cyber-attacks. How can your business prepare for quantum computing?
- Assess your current security posture, identifying potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by quantum computing-based attacks.
- Invest in quantum-resistant technologies, such as post-quantum cryptography, to protect your sensitive data.
- Businesses can work with and consult quantum computing experts and stay up-to-date with the latest developments.
#4: Increased Focus on Cybersecurity Awareness Training
According to A Hacker’s Mind author Bruce Schneier, “People often represent the weakest link in the security chain and are chronically responsible for the failure of security systems.” A report by software marketplace G2, suggests that businesses “reevaluate their expenditure on phishing and security awareness training.” Organisations can invest in cyber awareness training as they move beyond compliance-based awareness campaigns. The focus must be shifted to developing holistic behaviour. One way to do this is to design culture change programs to promote more secure ways of working. Other things you can do to improve your cyber awareness program:
- Focus your training on transforming users from being the “weakest link” into the most vital link in detecting and preventing cyber-attacks.
- Use more realistic and relevant scenarios to simulate real challenges in the work environment.
- Incentivise positive participation in cyber security activities. Use gamification and social learning techniques to increase motivation and engagement.
- Customise and personalise your cyber awareness training to align with users’ needs, preferences, and learning styles.
#5: Greater Collaboration Between Perth Businesses and Governments
Matt Salier, CEO of Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre, noted: “By working together with government, industry, and academia, we believe that we can achieve greater cyber resilience across the Australian economy.” Such collaboration happens through the sharing of information, expertise, and resources. The Australian Signals Directorate’s Cyber Security Partnership Program specifically enables organisations and individuals to engage with the ASD’s ACSC and fellow partners. The objective is to draw on collective cyber understanding, experience, skills, and capability. It also gives access to threat intelligence, news, and advice to raise situational awareness, plus collaboration opportunities, exercises, discussions, workshops, and other resilience-building activities. In the 2023-2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy, cyber is shifted from a technical topic into a whole-of-nation endeavour, to provide better support to civilians and businesses. The Australian government also wants to work with industries on proposed legislative reforms and new initiatives to address gaps in existing laws.
Preparing for Cyber Security Trends in 2024
Cyber security is a continuing endeavour. Every business will need to upgrade or adjust every so often. With an ever-changing cyber landscape, increasing cyber threats, and new trends in cyber security, you must ensure that your business is ready for any possibility. At Inspired IT, we specialise in moving your business up the security maturity ladder by following the Australian Essential 8 mitigation strategies. Contact us for any enquiry or download this datasheet to learn more about our Cyber Security Services for Perth businesses: 
