Emerging Cyber threats of 2024
Several new trends and evolving techniques in cyber threats, particularly around ransomware, trojans, and hacking, are emerging in 2024:
Ransomware Sophistication
Attackers are shifting from full encryption to intermittent encryption, encrypting portions of files at a time to evade detection and speed up attacks. Ransomware groups are also using quantum-resilient encryption methods, making recovery more difficult. Moreover, data theft and exfiltration are becoming primary tactics, with attackers stealing sensitive data and threatening to publish it unless a ransom is paid. Groups like CL0P and BlackCat have embraced this approach, often targeting cloud infrastructure, industrial systems, and managed service providers.
Trojans and Virus Evolution
Cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting software vulnerabilities and stolen credentials, especially through phishing and brute-force attacks on Remote Desktop Protocols (RDP). Viruses are often delivered through trojans disguised as legitimate software or updates, which then facilitate deeper access into networks.
Hacking Techniques
Several techniques are gaining prominence:
DLL Sideloading and āLiving off the Landā techniques are becoming more common, where attackers use legitimate tools or processes within the system to avoid detection.
Supply chain attacks and phishing campaigns are expanding in scope, especially targeting companiesā cloud services and critical infrastructure ļæ¼ ļæ¼.
These developments point to a more professionalized and automated cybercrime ecosystem, requiring stronger defenses such as multi-factor authentication, timely patching, and regular backups to mitigate risks.
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