Cybercrime
The latest Cyber Security Threat Radar from Swisscom highlights the vectors of attack and approaches currently being adopted by cybercriminals in Switzerland. Highlights include developments in disinformation & destabilisation, manipulated generative AI and insecure IoT/OT devices.
Cybercrime has been at a consistently high level for many years. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their techniques and finding new ways to exploit cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Particularly striking is the sharp rise in disinformation & destabilisation activities, which are the focus of the current report. The dissemination of misinformation and targeted attempts at destabilisation pose a serious threat to organisations, institutions and society as a whole.
Targeted disinformation campaigns can seriously damage the reputation of affected companies and organisations. Moreover, if a prompt defence is not mounted, the effects on a business can be devastating, extending far beyond reputational damage. The security of corporate data and IT infrastructure relies heavily on the detection and combating of disinformation. To enable the timely implementation of comprehensive countermeasures and ensure continued stakeholder confidence, the threat must be taken seriously and sufficient preparations made to allow for a robust response should the worst happen.
The last Cyber Security Threat Radar from Swisscom already touched upon the threat of AI-based attacks. ChatGTP et al. have further accelerated the spread of Generative AI at a rapid pace. With the worldwide interest in artificial intelligence (AI), the focus has also turned to the associated security risks. It is widely acknowledged that AI systems offer both opportunities and risks. In this dynamic environment, it can be challenging for smaller companies to keep pace and protect their IT infrastructure effectively.
In an increasingly digital world, IoT/OT devices have become a staple in homes and workplaces. But it is worth remembering that networked devices are vulnerable devices. Any Internet-connected device provides a gateway into its network. Inadequately protected devices could bring about disruption to operations, theft of intellectual property, data tampering and network infiltration. Potential consequences also include breaches of compliance, damage to infrastructure or even loss of life. An awareness of these risks among companies and the mounting of a proactive defence are therefore essential.
The report explains more about this and the countermeasures that companies can take in the current threat situation.
Swisscom’s Cyber Security Threat Radar serves as a guide and compass for safe navigation through the cyberworld. It reveals both the motivations of the cybercriminals and the methods they employ. It also compiles, analyses and evaluates trends and challenges to provide an overview of how the current threat situation is developing in Switzerland. In addition, it also touches on countermeasures for the early detection of and defence against attacks.