As 2024 wraps up, we’re halfway through what many consider a turbulent decade. But let’s shine a light on the potential ahead for the latter half of the 2020s.
Now, I know it’s easy to write this off as overly optimistic. We’re all aware of the serious cyber security threats. In fact, bad actors are increasingly using AI to launch more complex attacks. This trend won’t slow down anytime soon. Yet, fear shouldn’t paralyze us. To quote Frank Herbert from “Dune,” “Fear is the mind killer.” We need clarity, and the cyber security landscape demands a collective response.
Cyber security professionals should focus on building a solid plan and strategies that can guide us through these challenges. I believe CISOs and their teams should prioritize three key areas in 2025 and beyond: innovation, insight, and influence.
Innovation is a must.
Looking ahead, the rise of cyber threats fueled by AI is inevitable. Bad actors are already utilizing AI to speed up and automate their attacks. We can’t sit back. We need to harness AI for defense. By leveraging AI, we can proactively patch vulnerabilities, identify suspicious behaviors, and enhance our detection capabilities. It’s essential for modern teams to adapt and integrate AI into their security strategies, turning it into a powerful ally against cyber threats.
Insight is vital.
We have to acknowledge the evolving nature of cyber threats. While ransomware, phishing, and zero-day exploits are still prevalent, deepfake technology is emerging as a significant risk. Just this past February, a finance worker in Hong Kong was conned out of $25 million by fraudsters using deepfake tech to impersonate their CFO during a video call. Similarly, in May, WPP’s CEO was targeted in a deepfake scam, although that attempt didn’t succeed. As threats like these become easier for criminals to execute, it’s crucial for security teams to educate staff on the dangers of deepfakes and implement advanced AI solutions to detect them.
Engagement is key.
CISOs also need to engage more with the broader business landscape. Their insights must influence business strategies and organizational risk discussions. Today’s CISOs are increasingly integrated into high-level conversations and need a strong grasp of business priorities to effectively manage risk. This expanded role means collaborating closely with senior executives across various functions, including finance and HR. A recent Deloitte survey highlights that one in five businesses now has the CISO reporting directly to the CEO instead of the CIO. This shift reflects the reality: CISOs are not just defenders against threats; they are vital players in embedding cyber considerations into strategic decisions.
So, as we venture into the next decade, let’s focus on these elements—innovation, insight, and influence—to address the challenges head-on.