Score A Touch Down Against Hackers

Danni February 15, 2025

The biggest teams are gearing up for football’s biggest day in the season! While they’re getting ready to go out and crack some pads, cyber-criminals are cracking their knuckles while preparing their playbook for 2025.

Just like any championship game, your best plan is relying on teamwork, preparation and strategy. And in the case of cyber security, the best defense is a strong offense.

Get ready to tackle this year’s top predicted threats! Here’s what’s the experts predict for 2025:

This Year’s Cybersecurity MVPs (Most Vicious Perpetrators)

1. AI-Powered Phishing Plays

AI is a powerful tool, but in the wrong hands, it can be a big problem. Cyber-criminals are using a trick-play tactic with AI to create personalized phishing e-mails that mimic trusted brands or colleagues. These authentic looking messages can fake out even the smartest and most cautious employees.

Your Defense:

  • Use multifactor authentication (MFA) to protect accounts even if credentials are compromised.
  • Train employees to recognize phishing attempts.
  • Implement e-mail filtering tools that detect and block suspicious messages.

2. Ransomware Blitz

One of the most dominating threats to businesses of all sizes continues to be ransomware. Hackers are not only encrypting files but also threatening to leak sensitive data if ransoms aren’t paid.

Your Defense:

  • Regularly back up your data and store backups off-site.
  • Ensure your systems and software are up-to-date with the latest patches.
  • Set up strong security software on your devices to catch and stop ransomware attacks before they can cause harm.

3. Supply Chain Sneak Attacks

Small and midsize businesses are being targeted by hackers as a way to infiltrate larger supply chains. By breaching your network, they can gain access to your partners and vendors, widening their impact.

Your Defense:

  • Vet your vendors and ensure they follow strict cybersecurity practices.
  • Segment your network to limit access points for attackers.
  • Use security models (called zero-trust) to double-check and confirm the identity of every user and device every time they access your system, no matter what.

4. Deepfake Decoys

Deepfake technology is being weaponized to impersonate executives or colleagues, convincing employees to transfer funds or share sensitive information.

Your Defense:

  • Verify any unusual requests via a second method, like a direct phone call.
  • Educate your team about the potential for deepfake scams.
  • Limit the sharing of sensitive information online that could be used to create convincing fakes.

5. Internet Of Things (IoT) Fumbles

Believe it or not, smart devices like printers, cameras and even thermostats ARE hackable, and often overlooked when it comes to cybersecurity. Hackers exploit these weak points to gain access to your network.

Your Defense:

  • Change default passwords on all IoT devices.
  • Update device firmware regularly.
  • Isolate IoT devices on a separate network to limit exposure.

Your Game Plan In 2025

Winning against hackers this year requires more than just strong plays – it takes a solid game plan. Here’s how to stay ahead:

  • Draft Your Team: Partner with a trusted IT provider to proactively monitor and protect your systems.
  • Study The Playbook: Stay informed about emerging threats and how to counter them.
  • Run Practice Drills: Regularly test your backups and conduct cybersecurity training with your employees.

Get Your Free Cybersecurity Game Plan

Ready to take your cybersecurity strategy to the next level? Schedule a No Cost, No Obligation Cyber Security Risk Analysis today. We’ll identify vulnerabilities, provide actionable solutions and ensure your business is prepared to beat the hackers this year.

Click here to book your Risk Analysis consultation call now!

Don’t let cyber-criminals win the championship. With the right team and strategy, you can protect your business and stay ahead of the game.