Did you know that nearly half of all businesses in the UK reported experiencing cyber attacks in the past year? That’s indeed true, and 46 percent is not an insignificant ratio by any means. The statistics are official, with the UK government revealing attacks on 68% medium and 75% large businesses. The hackers did not refrain from attacking the charities either, targeting 57% of high-income organizations.
These numbers are staggering and indicate one thing prominently; the attacks are frequent, increasing with time. In addition to the severity of the threat, the situation highlights the need for proportionate and stringent online security. Without it, everything that’s online will remain at stake.
The question is what sort of defense we must have against such attacks. Mainly, two factors can help contain the threat; primarily, advanced technology can help deal with the assailants. Then, the need will be to employ skilled individuals to stop such attacks at all levels and by all means.
If you find interest in cybersecurity, you are probably wondering about securing a job in one of the top security firms. Well, it’s not impossible, but you will need to fulfill the prerequisites. Becoming a skilled professional will require you to earn masters in cyber security online degree and relevant certification.
Then, if you truly want to upgrade your skills, you’ll have to understand the emerging security trends. Mitigating the risks in today’s digital age requires smart cyber-security. It is about opting for emerging technologies to plug the security loopholes. Let’s look at five technology areas that are in focus.
- Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence is the next big thing as technology’s integration with today’s cybersecurity is concerned. It is here to change the ways we use to secure our computers. It provides computers with the capability to have a comprehensive and stern defense mechanism against all security threats.
The AI has a pivotal role in spotting and dealing with advanced security threats. These may include ransomware, specific programs and malware, and viruses. It is well-designed to deal with the sophisticated, emerging threats that challenge the full spectrum of security. So AI is essential for every machine.
- Automated Systems
Automation is one of the most important defenses against any online attack because it helps rule out anomalies and discrepancies. An automated system is helpful in this regard due to two reasons. First, automation enables a system to scan a network. Secondly, it ensures robust monitoring of networks. These two elements combined make it possible to detect the threats in real-time.
Another equally vital component is the security framework, comprising of several layers. The firewalls and anti-viruses are some of the examples of the security layers. When the system is automated, it enables the defense mechanism to update automatically, reducing the risk of a successful attack.
- Machine Learning
From a broader perspective, machine learning is a branch of AI that further strengthens security. It equips the systems with the ability to learn independently and perform better over time utilizing experience. In other words, in case of a threat, the system will know how to act and in what manner.
Using machine learning, it becomes possible for a system to adapt to new information or data sets. In simple terms, with the use of the technology, a system’s algorithm remains updated at all times. It makes machines ‘self-sufficient’ without the frequent need for human intervention.
- Internet of Things
The Internet of Things is an emerging concept in cybersecurity and promises much more than conventional security. Let’s understand a bit about the Internet of Things (IoT) first. It is based on interconnecting the devices and linking them to a central network. It is well-designed to alert the relevant authorities in a minimum time.
When we integrate it with the defense mechanism, the combination becomes lethal – for the threats. What it brings to the security realm is the interconnectivity, thwarting any attempt to compromise security. So, the result is a quick detection of a cyberattack, followed by prompt action.
- Super Computing
Supercomputers rely on and talk about superlative systems. These could do what the conventional or present-day computers cannot; detect threats much faster and better. What makes these computers, so reliable is their data storage and the power to compute.
Understandably, these computers can’t be in use anywhere and everywhere. For this reason, experts foresee their use against significant security threats undermining national security. Additionally, supercomputers can be pivotal in scientific discoveries due to their stature.
Final Thoughts
In this age, security apparatus, mechanism, and system are undergoing rapid changes. Every day, we hear of some new development making its way into the industry. However, at the same time, viruses, threats, and risks have been increasing, posing a significant challenge for security managers.
Every once in a while, we hear of some online attack that destroys the defense. What comes along is the exposing of personal records and blackmailing attempts. It poses a grave security situation, and it needs stricter measures, such as smart cybersecurity. The need is a comprehensive plan to equip the systems with maximum security using the latest tech.
