Cyber attack surge in 2024: What you need to know

Aug 23, 2024

By: Prerna Tyagi

Global cyber attack explosion​

According to Check Point Software Technologies Ltd’s Q1 report, the first quarter of 2024 saw a jaw-dropping 28% spike in cyberattacks worldwide. This sharp uptick signals a more dangerous digital landscape, with organisations everywhere facing increased risks.

India’s cyber threat crisis

India is in the crosshairs of cybercriminals, facing an average of 2,807 attacks per week in Q1 2024. That’s a 33% year-on-year jump, making it one of the top targets globally. The urgency for stronger defences has never been greater.

Most targeted sectors​

Cybercriminals are zeroing in on the Education/Research, Government/Military, and Healthcare sectors. Plus, the Hardware Vendor industry has seen a shocking 37% increase in attacks year-on-year.

​Regional attack trends

The concentration of cyber attacks varies by region: Africa has experienced a 20% increase in attacks per organisation, while Latin America has seen a 20% drop. These regional shifts highlight the uneven distribution of cyber threats.

Ransomware hotspots

North America is leading the charge in ransomware attacks, with 59% of nearly 1,000 incidents. Europe is catching up with 24%, and Asia-Pacific trails at 12%. Europe has also seen a staggering 64% rise in ransomware attacks from last year.

Europe’s ransomware surge​

Europe is grappling with a 64% increase in ransomware attacks, the highest surge among all regions. This explosive growth demands immediate attention and stronger ransomware defences across the continent.

India’s malware menace

India’s top malware threats include fake updates, remote access trojans (RATs), and information stealers. These malicious tools are wreaking havoc on organisations, underscoring the need for robust cyber defences.

Malicious file delivery trends

In India, more than 50% of malicious files were delivered via the web in the last month. This statistic highlights the critical need for securing online channels to fend off malware attacks.

Expert cybersecurity strategies

To tackle the rising cyber threats, experts recommend a comprehensive approach: robust data backups, regular cyber awareness training, timely security patches, strong user authentication, and advanced anti-ransomware solutions. These steps are crucial to defending against today’s cyber threats.

Stay ahead of cyber threats​

With cyberattacks on the rise, it’s essential to stay proactive. Implementing these expert-recommended measures will help safeguard your organisation and mitigate the risks posed by evolving cyber threats.

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