Now more than ever, technology can be found in practically every industry across the globe. The rise of the Internet and the connected world has given birth to cyber security, a field that is becoming increasingly important due to more reliance on computer systems and other devices.
So what is cyber security? And what are some emerging trends in cyber security for 2019? Whether you’re considering an occupation in this growing field or own any piece of technology, it is important to be informed on the direction of cyber security.
What Is Cyber Security?
To put it simply, cyber security is a subset of IT (information technology) with emphasis on the protection of computer systems from theft or damage to hardware, software, or electronic data.
Cyber security has several applications across technology and the Internet of things, including:
- The Internet
- Bluetooth and WiFi
- Smart devices (smartphones, televisions)
- Computers
A proper cyber security system has multiple layers of protection spread across hardware, networks, programs, and data. The goal is to make the Internet safer for everyone.
At an individual level, cyber security protects from attacks such as:
- Identity theft
- Loss of valuable data
- Extortion attempts
Trend #1: More Use of Data Models to Improve Cyber Security
The first of many emerging trends in cyber security for 2019 is the push for data modeling to better understand problems. Organizations handle large amounts of shared data daily. This presents a challenge for cyber security experts who aim to make sure there are no weaknesses in their network.
One way to better understand data utilization and security is to apply analytics, data science, and predictive machine learning (ML) models. Graduates of the relatively new field of data science are now moving into security-related positions. This wave will spur new ideas and recognition by the industry of data modeling, resulting in more effective security.
Interested in joining the data revolution? St. Thomas University offers a Master of Science in Big Data Analytics, which focuses on scientific theories and engineering applications of data analytics for solving big data problems.
Trend #2: Increased Number of Vulnerabilities
Emerging trends in cyber security indicate more additions to the Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures (CVE), a catalog of known cyber security threats. These threats are divided into two categories:
- Vulnerabilities: Mistake in software code that makes it prone to attacks via direct access to a system or network.
- Exposures: Mistake in software code or configuration that makes it prone to attacks via indirect access to a system or network.
According to experts, we can expect at least a 5% increase in vulnerability discoveries in 2019.
What does this trend mean for you?
For those interested in working in the cyber security field, it means increased demand for experts an job growth as more problems arise. As a consumer, it means that you must be extra careful with how you use your devices and what information you give online. Everyone from individuals to big corporations can be a target of a cyber security attack, especially as more channels of vulnerability open up.
Trend #3: Required Security Assessments
With the rise of the Internet and technology in our day-to-day operations, the threat of cyber-attacks has also increased. Thus, we can expect to see a more streamlined response to containing these threats and reducing the risk of an attack.
More businesses will be required to provide proof of a security assessment, audit report, or attestation. This means a higher demand for cyber security experts to ensure that these protections are in place.
Trend #4: Expanded Cyber Warfare Attacks
Implementing effective cyber security measures is particularly challenging today because there are more devices than people, and attackers are becoming more innovative.
Mobile, in particular, has become a prominent medium for cyberattacks. RSA’s 2019 Current State of Cybercrime report indicates that 70% of fraudulent transactions happened on mobile in 2018, and fraud on mobile apps has increased 680% since 2015.
And although ransomware attacks (malicious software designed to extort money by blocking access to files or the computer system until the ransom is paid) against consumers are down this year, the same cannot be said for enterprises and governments.
According to Malwarebytes, reports indicate a 195% increase in ransomware attacks from the end of 2018 to the beginning of 2019. This is on top of a 500% year-over-year increase in ransomware detections by businesses between last year and this year.
Meanwhile, research from the threat intelligence firm, Recorded Future, revealed nearly 170 ransomware attacks on state and local governments since 2013. The numbers are expected to go up this year as many attacks are not reported immediately.
Trend #5: Migration to the Cloud
Ever since the concept of the cloud (software and services that run on the Internet, instead of locally on your computer) stepped onto the scene, it has shown no signs of slowing down. The same goes for emerging trends in cyber security, as the cloud moves on to host secure systems without requiring any hardware for storage.
We will continue to see organizations shift their workloads into the cloud as the physical systems on the premises reach their expiration. As more institutions develop an interest in the latest technology and tools available, the landscape of cyber security will become altered. The usual threats will decrease while new threats to the online space arise.
Trend #6: Integration of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Automation
It is a testament to our current advancements that we are able to use technology to help better other technology. In 2019 and in the years to come, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and automation will come to the forefront of technological innovation.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
We can expect cyber security experts to leverage AI and ML as they become more necessary and the volume of data being generated and collected increases, forming a higher demand.
There are many advantages to integrating AI and ML with cyber security solutions:
- They are designed to work around the clock.
- Can respond in milliseconds to cyberattacks that would take minutes, hours, days, or even months for humans to identify.
- Simplifies the process of data collection and analysis.
- AI systems can be integrated for greater access to valuable data, helps cyber security professionals make better and more informed decisions.
Major companies in the tech game such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are all working to incorporate AI and ML to their Internet-based offerings. This, in turn, will spread technology to a broader audience in a more accessible format.
How Can Cyber Security Experts Use Automation?
Automation is the use of technology to control or monitor a process. This method has also been gaining a foothold in the industry of cyber security. According to a survey by the Ponemon Institute, 79% of IT security practitioners out of a 1,400 sample responded that they either use or plan to use automation tools and platforms.
Automation can help perform many tasks, including:
- Collecting data from your information system for monitoring and analysis.
- Keeping track of all software and hardware within an organization.
- Keeping physical and virtual assets updated.
- Performing vulnerability assessments.
Start Your Career in Cyber Security at STU
Has this article piqued your interest in cyber security? If you are even considering a career in this exciting and growing field, explore the Bachelor of Business Administration in Management / Cyber Security Management degree program at St. Thomas University. Before you know it, you will be on your way to a dynamic career alongside the latest technological developments.
Give us a call at 800-367-9010 or email at signup@stu.edu today!
