The world leader in unified cybersecurity, WatchGuard Technologies, recently released information about their predictions for cybersecurity in 2024. Researchers from WatchGuard’s Threat Lab predict that in 2024, a variety of new technologies and advancements will open the door for new cyberthreats. Large language models (LLMs), AI-based voice chatbots, and contemporary VR/MR headsets are a few possible areas of focus. Managed service providers (MSPs) play a big part in thwarting these threats.
“Every new technology trend opens up new attack vectors for cybercriminals,” Said WatchGuard Technologies’ Chief Security Officer, Corey Nachreiner. The persistent lack of cybersecurity skills will present the cybersecurity industry with difficult challenges in 2024. As a result, MSPs, unified security, and automated platforms are more crucial than ever for shielding businesses from ever-more-complex threats.
The Threat Lab team at WatchGuard has identified a number of possible threats for 2024. Large Language Models (LLMs) will be one major area of concern as attackers may use LLMs to obtain confidential information. With 3.4 million cybersecurity jobs available globally and a dearth of cybersecurity expertise, MSPs are expected to focus heavily on security services utilizing AI and ML-based automated platforms.
Artificial intelligence (AI) spear phishing tool sales on the dark web are predicted to soar in 2024. These AI-powered programs can carry out time-consuming operations like automatically gathering information, creating persuasive texts, and sending spam emails. Additionally, the team predicts a rise in voice phishing or “vishing” calls that use deepfake audio and LLMs to completely bypass human intervention.
The exploitation of virtual and mixed reality (VR/MR) headsets may pose a growing threat in 2024. Researchers from Threat Lab claim that hackers might be able to obtain sensor data from VR/MR headsets and replicate the user environment, leading to significant security breaches. The widespread use of QR code technology may not come without risks. The group predicts that in 2024, a significant cyberattack will occur when a worker scans a malicious QR code.
These professional observations from the WatchGuard Threat Lab team center on the convergence of artificial intelligence and technology. It is anticipated that in the future, entities of all sizes, will depend more heavily on managed and security service providers due to the rapid advancements in AI technology and the accompanying cybersecurity threats.