As we step in to 2025, the cyber security landscape is evolving at a rather quick pace. With an estimated 7.78m cyber attacks on UK businesses last year according to the UK Government, it’s important that you adapt to new threats, technologies, and strategies to safeguard your digital assets and maintain trust with stakeholders. Throughout this piece, the FullProxy team explores our 4 cyber security predictions that could shape the industry in 2025.
Data harvesting remains a critical concern worldwide. But what does this actually mean? At its core, data harvesting refers to the unauthorised collection and misuse of data, often exacerbated by two emerging trends: Shadow IT and Shadow AI.
Shadow IT-the use of unauthorised hardware, software and services-has long been a challenge for IT teams. However, the advent of Shadow AI adds a new layer of complexity. Employees increasingly rely on generative AI tools and machine learning models that their businesses or public sector departments may not officially sanction. This creates risks such as:
To address these challenges, it’s vital to use your available DLP solutions and create clear policies around AI use, making sure that innovation does not come at the expense of security.
The geopolitical landscape has shifted significantly in recent years, and this is reflected in the cyber security domain. Nation-state attacks have become increasingly sophisticated and more prevalent, often targeting critical infrastructure and leveraging tools such as malware, ransomware, and disinformation campaigns.
The rise of a multipolar world-where multiple powers compete for regional and international power-has intensified the frequency and impact of these attacks. From economic destabilisation to the spread of false narratives – nation-state actors aim to exploit vulnerabilities across borders.
To counter these threats, it’s really important to adopt a Zero-Trust security approach, such as those championed by our partners at Fortinet. A Zero-Trust model assumes that threats can originate both externally and internally, enforcing strict identity verification, least-privilege access, and continuous monitoring. By implementing these principles, you can bolster your business’ defences against the growing tide of malicious nation-state actors. Learn more about our tips for Zero Trust adoption in our blog here.
The “cloud-first” mantra, once (and still, to many) is seen as a panacea for scalability and flexibility, is now being reconsidered by some. IT teams are increasingly realising that cloud environments may not always offer the same level of security as on-premises datacentres. Key challenges include:
A security-first strategy is emerging as a more pragmatic approach. Businesses must prioritise robust security measures over a blind commitment to cloud adoption. For example, have you reviewed your default cloud settings recently? Many organisations leave critical settings unchanged, creating avoidable vulnerabilities.
Investing in workforce training and adopting hybrid solutions that combine cloud and on-premises capabilities can help strike a balance between innovation and security.
Quantum computing is no longer a distant concept. Increasingly, we’re hearing reports of ‘steal now, decrypt later’ activity by hackers who assume that even if data is protected now, the technology to access it will be soon available. As this technology matures, it threatens to render traditional encryption methods obsolete, creating an urgent need for post-quantum cryptography.
You must begin preparing today by gaining full visibility of your certificate estates. This ensures you’re given the ability to identify vulnerable encryption methods and transition seamlessly to quantum-resistant algorithms. Tools like AppViewX can simplify this process, enabling businesses to manage and move their certificates at the drop of a hat. By integrating solutions like these, you can future-proof your encryption strategies against the inevitable rise of quantum threats.
Read our insightful blog on post-quantum computing here.
The cyber security landscape of 2025 is defined by complexity and rapid change. Our 2025 cyber security predictions – from combating Shadow IT and AI to navigating nation-state threats, reassessing cloud strategies, and preparing for quantum computing – businesses must stay agile and proactive. By adopting advanced solutions and fostering a culture of security-first thinking, organisations can rise to the challenge and protect their digital future.
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