Here are the five most significant cyber security threats facing us in 2025. Knowing the challenges can help us better defend our organizations and protect our stakeholders.
5. Deceptive Social Engineering Tactics
Cyber criminals know that sometimes the easiest way is through people, not systems. Social engineering remains a potent threat, leveraging human psychology to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential information. Social engineering tricks, like phishing emails or fake social media profiles, aim to fool people into giving away sensitive information.
In 2025, expect more sophisticated tactics, including personalized phishing emails and fake social media profiles. Use AI-driven email filtering tools to detect and block phishing emails more effectively. Implement Multi-Factor Authentication/MFA to add an extra layer of security for all user accounts. A clear protocol for employees to report suspicious emails or interactions should be established.
Social Engineering scams can be costly, and no one is immune even our youngest, most tech-savvy generation. Conduct regular phishing simulations and provide training to inform all employees of the latest phishing tactics. To read more about a social engineering attack on a regional school district, follow this link.
4. Weak Spots in Smart Devices (Internet of Things/IoT)
The attack surface is expanding with the proliferation of IoT devices, from smart home gadgets to industrial sensors to printers. IoT devices connected to organization networks can serve as entry points for attackers, potentially compromising the entire system. Many IoT devices lack adequate security measures, making them prime targets for hackers.
Securing these devices will be paramount in 2025. Monitor your devices’ security settings, ensure they’re updated, and separate them from more sensitive networks at home or work. Ensure all IoT devices are running the latest firmware, which often includes security patches. Implement strong authentication mechanisms for all IoT devices connected to the network. Monitor IoT traffic and maintain logs to detect and respond to any suspicious activity quickly.
Perhaps the most insidious and frightening IoT attacks are those involving devices we install to make our organization or home safe. Read on for some examples.
3. Ransomware
Ransomware attacks—malicious software that locks down your files and demands money to release them—are not new but are evolving. In 2025, attackers will likely adopt more targeted approaches, focusing on critical infrastructure and large corporations. The rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) makes it easier for less skilled criminals to launch attacks.
Regular backups and robust incident response plans are essential defenses against this growing threat. To prevent unauthorized access, access to sensitive data must be limited, and the principle of least privilege must be adopted. Regularly train employees to recognize phishing attempts, as phishing is often the entry point for ransomware attacks.
US municipalities and county governments have suffered numerous ransomware attacks in 2024. In Indiana, at least two counties were hit by ransomware. The gap in their levels of preparedness led to very different outcomes for their citizens. Click here to read more.
2. AI-Powered Attacks
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a double-edged sword. While it enhances security measures, it empowers cyber criminals to run automated attacks, like smarter social engineering scams and realistic fake audio and videos (deepfakes). In 2025, expect more attacks that utilize AI to automate phishing schemes, create deepfakes, and exploit system vulnerabilities.
Organizations must invest in AI-driven security tools to counter these threats effectively by detecting and responding to unusual user behavior. Keep all software and AI-based security systems updated to ensure they have the latest threat intelligence. Train employees to recognize social engineering tactics that AI may enhance. Conduct threat-hunting activities to detect anomalies within the network that might signal an AI-driven attack.
These sorts of scams are growing exponentially. While retailers aren’t the only victims, the following article illustrates how quickly AI can negatively impact typical online business practices. Read more here.
1. The Number One Cyber Security Threat… Drum roll, please… The Unknown, But Looming Threat…
When it comes to cyber security threats, times change fast! Five years ago, no one was worried about AI. Ten years ago, very few people heard of Business Email Compromise. Technology is evolving rapidly, and criminals are too. The biggest cyber security threat we might face next year is likely being generated in a hacker’s den. It might develop with a foreign government’s support in Russia, Iran, or China. It is potentially being created independently in Texas, California, or Saskatchewan. We can say for sure that cyber criminals are developing new ways to steal data and money and sow chaos for governments, businesses, and organizations.
If you still need to be convinced about how fast and far-reaching cyber threats are, visit the official website of the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) for an awakening. They publish a weekly bulletin of new cyber vulnerabilities and provide patch information when available. The week of November 11, 2024, alone lists hundreds, ranging from issues with a beauty parlor management system to Adobe to a ventilator support system. Read more here.
How do we fight the unknown? Training. As mentioned in association with many of the other risks, regular training of employees can stop or at least minimize the effects of cyber crime. Well-trained employees will recognize discrepancies and suspicious behaviors in online activities. One person putting up red flags can prevent disaster. Your organization must now have well-organized, practiced reporting protocols and response procedures. Robust passwords must be used and updated regularly. Multi-factor authentication should be your standard, not an afterthought. All cyber security protocols should be kept up-to-date and routinely tested. Don’t let human error be your organization’s downfall.
Be vigilant. Educate yourself, your employees, and your stakeholders. Be proactive in 2025 to ensure that you are cyber safe.
Commonwealth Sentinel is here to help you navigate the ever-evolving and growing cyber security threats we all face. We can evaluate your existing IT security and work with your team to improve it. At Commonwealth Sentinel, we stay focused on cyber security so you can focus on other things. Contact us today or sign up for a free consultation.
Have a happy and cyber safe New Year!