Keeping our devices and data protected against cyber threats is a constant battle, and it shows no signs of slowing down in 2024. New research from security companies such as Norton, Avast and Gen have uncovered the biggest predicted risks in the year ahead, as well as some tools and techniques to counter them. The threats include potential AI risks, malware that can be bought ‘off the shelf’ by cybercriminals, as well as new email scams that can trick you into revealing valuable information.

To ensure you don’t fall victim to these attacks, here’s a quick guide to the cyber risks you need to know about in 2024 and the steps to take to protect yourself from their potentially disastrous effects.

The risks of AI

AI has been the breakout technology of the past year, with the likes of ChatGPT quickly becoming software that people are using to help create documents, respond to emails and complete other daily tasks which previously took up precious time. As people integrate AI programs further into their lives, with an expected move to have AI running locally on devices rather than in the cloud, this opens up some worrying safety issues.

One of the most pressing is the problem of personal AI programs being brought into the work environment, which can accidentally open the door to security breaches, especially if targeted by hackers. Generative AI is another area of concern, with things like deep fake videos and imaging software being able to create convincing scams that fool even the most seasoned eye.

There’s little doubt that we’ll all have to be incredibly vigilant on both how we use AI and the content it could be creating.

Malware on the rise

Malware could become more widespread and harder to detect, as new cybercriminals are able to buy pre-written code from shady MaaS (Malware as a Service) providers. In a recent report, global security experts Gen stated that these are expected to include a new threat that renews stolen cookies, which means hackers are able to access account details even when a password has been changed. 

Sophisticated scams

In a recent update by security software giant Norton, it was revealed that 2024 should see a sharp increase in sophisticated email scams. These can take the form of messages that appear to come from your boss, work colleagues, family or friends, but are instead AI-generated to make them almost indistinguishable from authentic ones. These threats can also appear on your social media feeds, with the express purpose of tempting you to engage. Once you interact with them, they can open you up to all kinds of threats, including blackmail, ransomware, or security vulnerabilities at work which could have catastrophic results.

How to protect yourself against cyber-threats in 2024

While these threats are frightening, there are ways to protect yourself. Here are some things to start doing straight away.

Don’t click on anything until you’ve checked it

While it may be tempting to fire off an instant reply or click through to a site linked in an email or message supposedly from a coworker or friend, a quick confirmation message or phone call to them can help you to avoid becoming the victim of a scam.

Use two-factor authentication

When it comes to account security, it’s essential that you use two-factor authentication to stop hackers from gaining access to your account or data. Even clever AI programs will struggle to steal your information if the security settings require a code being sent to your phone.

Keep multiple backups (including offline)

Ransomware and malware are horrible ways that hackers not only gain access to your information but then hold it to ransom until you pay (and even then there’s no guarantee that the information will be returned). One way to stop this happening is to create regular backups of your data, with at least one being offline on an external disk, so if you do fall victim you’ll have a safe version of your data.

Avoid public Wi-Fi without a VPN

It may be convenient to catch up a bit of work on your laptop while in a coffee shop or other public place, but this makes it easy for hackers to set up fake Wi-Fi points to hijack your session, stealing data in the process. It’s best to avoid these situations, but another solution is to always use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your data and prevent anyone from being able to read it.

Use professional security software to keep your data safe

So much of data security relies on you being constantly on your guard and keeping up with the latest threats. For most people this is just too hard, especially with the busy lives and demanding careers that are a normal part of modern life. One excellent option is to use professional security software that takes care of all this without you having to remember anything.

Norton 360 Advanced is a prime example, as it not only features a VPN to encrypt your data when online, but it also has a cloud backup to keep important files safe and out of the reach of ransomware attacks. Its real-time threat protection constantly looks for signs of the latest AI threats, with a password manager and social media monitor included to prevent hackers from stealing your identity or data. It’s also very affordable, with a special offer this month meaning the whole package is available on an annual subscription for £24.99 until 25th June 2024 (£34.99 thereafter), making it a great way to start off the year. Cyber-threats can be hugely costly affairs – thankfully protecting yourself against them doesn’t have to be.