Malwarebytes has published a devastating analysis outlining the condition of malware in 2023 and how organizations should actively defend themselves against these developing dangers.
Companies across the spectrum are scrambling to brace themselves from increasing threats of ransomware attacks on both Mac and Windows computers. But more than relying on traditional antivirus software - an effective layered defense strategy is essential for any organization hoping to stay secure this year.
The report outlines the types of malware prevalent in 2023, such as ransomware, trojans, and other malicious software targeting a company's proprietary data. It also provides insights into the key trends and developments in cybercrime over the past year, including how attackers increasingly leverage social engineering tactics to gain access to company systems.
The field of cybersecurity is always evolving as cunning hackers refine their techniques over time to stay one step ahead. The goal of cybersecurity companies is to shield susceptible consumers from these criminals' exploitation and the harm that malicious code they could use could do. The struggle to protect our online data privacy is a constant conflict between two parties, one of which is adamant about breaking past any digital barriers. The recently issued 2023 State of Malware report from Malwarebytes is where this paradox is most clear.
The 31-page report details some of the biggest recent developments in the cyber threat landscape: five archetypes that businesses should watch out for, what type of malware is often found on Macs, and other key insights. In its opening statement, Malwarebytes succinctly stated, "The old laws of cybersecurity are gone," serving as a sobering reminder that even with the availability of security solutions, staying one step ahead still requires knowledgeable individuals working cooperatively.
For those tasked with keeping our digital lives safe, it's an ongoing battle against increasingly sophisticated adversaries with no shortage of creative ideas for wreaking havoc online. The good news is that Malwarebytes' latest report provides valuable data points which can help us better understand where we stand and how we can prepare ourselves for future threats as they emerge.
Cybersecurity was impacted by several events that occurred throughout the world in 2022. Ukraine's geopolitical importance makes it a suitable target for social engineering attacks by claimed Russian and Chinese state actors. While ransomware gangs sought ways to buy access from disgruntled employees, Microsoft finally banned macros in Office documents to reduce dangers that could steal productivity.
In 2022, Microsoft implemented protections to stop malware from being downloaded using Office documents. This year also saw the cooperation of major IT businesses for a mature and widely accepted password-free authentication standard called FIDO2. It allowed users to securely log in to any website, app, or computer with their biometric data.
In 2023, the focus was on preventing attacks using artificial intelligence (AI). Anomaly detection and machine learning models, two AI-based security solutions, detect malicious activities in real-time. It enabled organizations to detect and respond quickly to sophisticated cyber threats, reducing the cost of a cybersecurity breach.
The most common malware found on Mac computers includes OSX Generic Suspicious, Vsearch, and Adware Crossrider, the top three common threats to be aware of, with 10%, 9% & 8% detections, respectively. Next up is PUP PCVark at 6%, followed by lesser but troublesome Adware New Tab (4%) and Mac Keeper (4%). The list rounds off with Other PUPS/Adwares achieving 24% detections, while Operator Mac and Malware account for 14% & 11%. Protect your system now before it's too late!
Read next: New Survey Shows the Challenges Businesses Face When Confronting Political Polarization
Companies across the spectrum are scrambling to brace themselves from increasing threats of ransomware attacks on both Mac and Windows computers. But more than relying on traditional antivirus software - an effective layered defense strategy is essential for any organization hoping to stay secure this year.
The report outlines the types of malware prevalent in 2023, such as ransomware, trojans, and other malicious software targeting a company's proprietary data. It also provides insights into the key trends and developments in cybercrime over the past year, including how attackers increasingly leverage social engineering tactics to gain access to company systems.
The field of cybersecurity is always evolving as cunning hackers refine their techniques over time to stay one step ahead. The goal of cybersecurity companies is to shield susceptible consumers from these criminals' exploitation and the harm that malicious code they could use could do. The struggle to protect our online data privacy is a constant conflict between two parties, one of which is adamant about breaking past any digital barriers. The recently issued 2023 State of Malware report from Malwarebytes is where this paradox is most clear.
The 31-page report details some of the biggest recent developments in the cyber threat landscape: five archetypes that businesses should watch out for, what type of malware is often found on Macs, and other key insights. In its opening statement, Malwarebytes succinctly stated, "The old laws of cybersecurity are gone," serving as a sobering reminder that even with the availability of security solutions, staying one step ahead still requires knowledgeable individuals working cooperatively.
For those tasked with keeping our digital lives safe, it's an ongoing battle against increasingly sophisticated adversaries with no shortage of creative ideas for wreaking havoc online. The good news is that Malwarebytes' latest report provides valuable data points which can help us better understand where we stand and how we can prepare ourselves for future threats as they emerge.
Cybersecurity was impacted by several events that occurred throughout the world in 2022. Ukraine's geopolitical importance makes it a suitable target for social engineering attacks by claimed Russian and Chinese state actors. While ransomware gangs sought ways to buy access from disgruntled employees, Microsoft finally banned macros in Office documents to reduce dangers that could steal productivity.
In 2022, Microsoft implemented protections to stop malware from being downloaded using Office documents. This year also saw the cooperation of major IT businesses for a mature and widely accepted password-free authentication standard called FIDO2. It allowed users to securely log in to any website, app, or computer with their biometric data.
In 2023, the focus was on preventing attacks using artificial intelligence (AI). Anomaly detection and machine learning models, two AI-based security solutions, detect malicious activities in real-time. It enabled organizations to detect and respond quickly to sophisticated cyber threats, reducing the cost of a cybersecurity breach.
The most common malware found on Mac computers includes OSX Generic Suspicious, Vsearch, and Adware Crossrider, the top three common threats to be aware of, with 10%, 9% & 8% detections, respectively. Next up is PUP PCVark at 6%, followed by lesser but troublesome Adware New Tab (4%) and Mac Keeper (4%). The list rounds off with Other PUPS/Adwares achieving 24% detections, while Operator Mac and Malware account for 14% & 11%. Protect your system now before it's too late!
Read next: New Survey Shows the Challenges Businesses Face When Confronting Political Polarization
