Reports of multiple breaches and ongoing ransomware attacks are now happening on a daily basis - and what is clear is that no one is immune to attack, regardless of size, reputation or resources.

As we progress through 2022, here are some of the main issues that we should all make it our business to be aware of:

Ransomware

Ransomware remains an ongoing concern. As a result, many organisations have matured their backup and recovery strategies, helping to make a quick rebound more achievable should ransomware break through online defences.

Exact domain name and impersonation phishing

Exact domain impersonation and phishing emails are still big business for scammers but robust user-awareness training can help employees identify these scam emails.

Cyber skills shortage

Resource constraints can limit an organisation’s ability to reduce risk, detect and respond to cyber threats. A current skills shortage makes it a seller’s market with competition fierce for top talent.

Insider threat

It’s not something people like to think about, but disgruntled employees and simple human error can cause costly data breaches.

Supply chain attacks

This was big business in 2021 and there is no reason to believe that criminals will give up this lucrative online trade. However, being able to demonstrate solid cyber security enhancements could be a USP that organisations start to shout about.

Cloud breaches

The Cloud helps organisations improve agility, with integrations and simplifying of operations ultimately reducing costs. But, as cloud adoption continues, unauthorised access and data breaches are inevitable due to lax security gaps and human error.

Fake news and misinformation

Fake news campaigns, troll and bot accounts have flourished over recent years, causing fear, mistrust and misinformation. In addition, deep fakes are expected to make a greater impact this year as technology evolves and becomes more mainstream.

State-sponsored activities

You only have to look at what is happening in Ukraine at the moment to see the role cyber-attacks have to play in global conflicts. Targeted cyber espionage and hacking will likely continue between governments with state-sponsored digital incursions now part of modern warfare.

Cyber Insurance

More organisations are investing in cyber security insurance this year, and who can blame them? Financial losses are hard enough to bear but these are compounded by reputational and business confidence losses that can make or break a business’s recovery.

The NEBRC was established to help support businesses from online crime and fraud. Part of a national police-led network, the NEBRC works with members to identify gaps and manage appropriate strategies and training to protect against cyber criminals.

For further information on what we do and what we can offer your business, contact us at: enquiries@nebrcentre.co.uk