Cyber security is the practice of protecting critical systems and sensitive information from digital attacks. Also known as information technology (IT) security, cyber security measures are designed to combat threats against networked systems and applications, whether those threats originate from inside or outside of an organization¹².
Implementing effective cyber security measures is particularly challenging today because there are more devices than people, and attackers are becoming more innovative. According to a report by Cisco, there will be 29.3 billion networked devices by 2023, up from 18.4 billion in 2018². Meanwhile, cybercriminals are using advanced techniques such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and zero-day exploits to bypass traditional defenses².
The importance of cyber security for individuals, organizations, and society at large cannot be overstated. Cyberattacks can result in identity theft, extortion, data loss, business disruption, and damage to critical infrastructure. According to a report by Varonis, there are 2,200 cyberattacks per day, with a cyberattack happening every 39 seconds on average³. In the US, a data breach costs an average of $9.44 million, and cybercrime is predicted to cost $8 trillion by 2023³⁴.
In this article Series, we will explore the different domains of cyber security, such as critical infrastructure security, network security, application security, cloud security, and endpoint security. We will also discuss some of the current and emerging trends and challenges in cyber security, such as ransomware attacks, supply chain attacks, deep fakes, and more. Finally, we will provide some resources for further learning and action on cyber security.
Cyber security is not only a technical issue but also a human one. It requires the collaboration of people, processes, and technology to create an effective defense from cyber threats. By understanding the basics of cyber security and staying updated on the latest developments, we can all play a role in making the digital world safer and more secure.
Sources:
(1) Top Cybersecurity Statistics to Know for 2023 | Cobalt. https://www.cobalt.io/blog/cybersecurity-statistics-2023.
(2) Cybersecurity Trends & Statistics For 2023; What You Need To Know – Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/chuckbrooks/2023/03/05/cybersecurity-trends–statistics-for-2023-more-treachery-and-risk-ahead-as-attack-surface-and-hacker-capabilities-grow/.
(3) 80 Cybersecurity Statistics and Trends [updated 2023] – Varonis. https://www.varonis.com/blog/77-cybersecurity-statistics-and-trends-for-2023.
(4) 160 Cybersecurity Statistics: Updated Report 2023. https://www.getastra.com/blog/security-audit/cyber-security-statistics/.
(5) 34 cybersecurity statistics to lose sleep over in 2023 – TechTarget. https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/34-Cybersecurity-Statistics-to-Lose-Sleep-Over-in-2020.
