This past year (2022) has been a challenging one for cybersecurity, with data breaches and ransomware attacks continuing to be major issues. The IBM-Ponemon survey shows that the cost of a data breach remains in excess of $4 million per incident, and ransomware is a leading cause of these breaches. Not only do they result in data loss and extortion, but they also make individuals and organizations vulnerable to identity fraud.

However, there is also some good news in the realm of cybersecurity. One positive trend that has emerged in the past year is the widespread adoption of multi-factor authentication. This method of authentication, which involves using a combination of something the user knows, something the user has, and something the user is, improves security and the user experience. It eliminates the reliance on passwords alone and makes it harder for hackers to gain access to sensitive information.

When looking to the future, it is likely that many of the same trends will continue to play a role in shaping cybersecurity. Data breaches, ransomware, and multi-factor authentication will likely remain major issues. Additionally, there is concern about an increase in attacks on the Internet of Things (IoT). As more and more devices become connected, the potential for hacking increases, making everything from cars and refrigerators to insulin pumps and implantable defibrillators vulnerable to cyber attacks. This is an area that will require more attention in the future.

Another trend that could have significant implications in the future is the use of artificial intelligence by malicious actors. While artificial intelligence has been used by cybersecurity professionals to improve security analysis and threat detection, it could also be used by hackers to create more sophisticated and difficult to detect attacks. This is an area that will need to be closely monitored in the future.

In conclusion, the past year has presented a number of challenges in the realm of cybersecurity, but there have also been some positive developments. As we move forward, it is important to continue to focus on solving the problems of data breaches and ransomware, while also working to improve multi-factor authentication and address the potential risks posed by the Internet of Things and artificial intelligence. By staying vigilant and continuing to adapt to new threats, we can work to create a more secure digital landscape for everyone.