Considering the advancements in technology this year, in 2023, the number of cyberattacks will only grow. Remote work, global digitalisation, increased use of mobile apps and people sharing their data all over the internet make it easier for attackers to access and damage sensitive data. Therefore, the need for protection against attacks also increases. Stronger and more complex technologies allow hackers and cyber attackers to have better weapons to hit us with.
Even though all companies should protect their sensitive data, some industries are more complex, dangerous and intensive cyber attacks than others. As a result, these industries must use the latest and up-to-date cybersecurity practices to guarantee data safety and protect users better. The reason why some industries are more vulnerable to attacks is that they could offer more valuable pieces of data to the attackers.
Let’s explore 5 at-risk industries that require the highest level of cybersecurity in 2023:
Healthcare
Healthcare was the first industry that experienced lots of issues during COVID-19. However, this industry has also been able to benefit from technology advancements and, therefore, is more prone to attacks. No one is surprised that healthcare is one of the most sensitive industries that keeps some of the most sensitive pieces of data, making it an appealing target for hackers.
Many reports have shown that ill and older people are attractive targets of online scams and thefts. Attackers that can get access to patients’ sensitive data, like medical records or analysis, can use it to effectively manipulate healthcare organisations.
Although cybersecurity isn’t the task for doctors and nurses, they still educate both colleagues and patients about online threats like social engineering attacks and boost security posture. Therefore, companies should protect healthcare information using the latest and greatest cybersecurity practices.
Small Businesses
Small businesses are the most appealing target for hackers after the healthcare industry. Even though most business owners running a startup or a small company believe that they are not visible or attractive to hackers, the truth is that they are the easiest target with some amount of information that can be damaged.
In addition, medium and small-sized companies usually don’t have the same level of data safety as market giants do. That is the key reason why they are highly vulnerable to attackers and data thefts. Smaller businesses don’t have enough money to invest in cybersecurity or penetration testing, making it easier for hackers to access data.
When a successful attack happens with a large company, its specialists know what steps to take to regain the trust of customers and to protect data further. However, when it happens, a small company usually struggles with outcomes and can’t come back to the market for many years.
eCommerce
eCommerce businesses keep lots of data about customers while processing orders and shipping products. This personal user information that eCommerce companies store includes phone numbers, addresses, emails, payment data, and more.
In case attackers are able to bypass the exciting security measures, they get all sensitive data on their hands. Therefore, hackers will be able to sell this data to scammers, thieves, and social engineers, while also allowing them to manipulate information. Hackers accessing data may put millions of customers at high risk and ruin your business.
Blockchain
The popularity of blockchain, cryptocurrencies, NFTs and Metaverse make it easy for hackers to steal data and money from users’ accounts. It isn’t surprising that hackers love this industry since it usually operates with millions and billions of dollars per year. Blockchain is known for its security, so not every hacker can access data.
However, users still tend to click on dangerous links and open files that may provide access to their data. When hackers get credentials for your accounts related to blockchain-based products, you have all chances of being hacked and losing your money and assets.
The security of blockchain-based products depends on the development team. However, the latest technologies are not secure enough to protect data safety. As a result, OpenSea, one of the most popular NFT marketplaces, has been hacked several times. So safeguarding your users and their assets is a difficult task.
Finance
No one will be surprised that financial institutes contain valuable data for attackers. Financial organisations gather and keep data which is tightly related to money — the primary thing hackers are after.
For example, over 150 million data of American residents was stolen in the Equifax breach. While a big part of this problem was caused by the institute’s negligence, financial organisations must take proactive and soothing measures to prevent future attacks.
Financial companies need to adopt the latest technologies and tools of cybersecurity while also keeping users informed, educating employees and hiring cyber experts to strengthen their security posture.
Wrapping Up
No one will be surprised that more and more cyberattacks are happening today. The increased use of technology, mobile apps and remote work made it possible for hackers to steal or damage your sensitive business data. Even though all companies should boost their security, some industries are still at higher risk. Companies in these fields should use the latest technologies and security measures while utilising the best cybersecurity practices.
