Just like the raging Coronavirus pandemic, cybersecurity issues are other significant looming threats to be wary of in 2020. A State of Breach Protection report notes that the cybersecurity sphere is quickly evolving, especially as more companies move towards next-generation IT. However, even with widespread awareness of the importance of cybersecurity, most individuals and companies don’t take the necessary measures to protect themselves from such threats. Outlined below are the major cybersecurity threats for the remaining half of 2020.
Data Breaches
As more organizations embrace the use of the internet in various work-related tasks, data breaches remain the biggest cybersecurity threat. Company and personal data have always been valuable in the black market. As such, ensuring the utmost data privacy should be a priority for individuals and organizations. Using SSL certificates, logical access, rapid patching, encrypting data storage, and updating web applications can help organizations keep their data safe from 
data breaches.
Cloud Jacking
Most companies are currently using the cloud as part of modern IT solutions. The cloud is increasingly becoming a common place to run organizational processes and store data. Unfortunately, cybercriminals have not been left behind with the increasing cloud popularity, judging from the current number of cloud-based threats.
Most cloud jacking attacks on cloud platforms occur as code injection, either through third-party libraries or directly to codes. Cloud attacks, from SQL injection or cross-site scripting, often aim at eavesdropping, taking control, or modifying sensitive data stored on cloud platforms. With this, companies should rethink their security approach to web applications and avoid manual data security management.
Sophisticated Ransomware Attacks
Ransomware cyberattacks have always been a concern for businesses for quite some time. They have persisted for long due to the easiness with which attackers can access personal data, especially with the random availability of ransomware kits on the dark web. The second half of 2020 will probably witness the inception of highly targeted ransomware attacks.
Experts anticipate the introduction of fewer but powerful malware. Cybercriminals have evolved their attacking strategies, with known ransomware brands leveraging affiliate structures to decrease suspicion.
Deepfakes
Deepfakes involves using artificial intelligence and machine learning to manipulate existing videos or images to create activities that didn’t happen. As more applications get into the market, there is a possibility that Deepfakes will become a major cybersecurity concern, with hackers using such creations for malicious intentions.
5G to WIFI Vulnerabilities
The need for individuals and organizations to improve security cannot be ignored with the advancing sophistication of cybersecurity threats. As 5G rolls into the market, there is no doubt that hackers will be on the lookout for vulnerabilities. With the emerging use of 5G networks, wireless carriers are switching from calls and data, preferring WIFI networks for better speeds and saving bandwidth. However, despite providing better usage, software vulnerabilities in these processes provide an 
opportunity for cybercriminals to compromise on its security.
Mobile Malware
As more people gradually shift from desktop operating systems to smartphones, business data stored on these devices increases daily. Cybercriminals are well aware of this as they keep on releasing mobile malware specifically made to target mobile operating systems. That said, individuals and companies using mobile operating systems should consider taking proper measures to prevent such vulnerabilities. Ensure that all mobile devices used to access company systems should have endpoint encryptions.
Increase in State-Sponsored Cyberattacks
Rogue states have joined cybercriminals in stealing data. Some governments with advanced technologies, financial backing, and IT expertise work together with cybercriminals in executing DDoS attacks and high profile data leaks that can influence global events, mute unfavorable opinions, steal industrial secrets and benefit politically. With increasing political tensions in the remainder of 2020, IT experts anticipate a surge in such attacks.
IoT Devices Related Risks
Desktop and mobile are probably the most targeted remote devices by hackers. However, IoT devices are currently at a higher risk, especially with increased usage in the last few years. As top brands race to introduce new technologies and products on the market, security considerations are not fully adhered to. The booming internet of things devices has brought along many security blunders that cybercriminals are taking advantage of.
From insecure wireless communications, unverified software updates, hard-coded credentials, and multiple web interface vulnerabilities are just but a few cyber threats that come with these devices. That aside, vulnerable IoT devices, such as NAS servers and routers, are excellent entry points for further cyberattacks.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity issues will probably continue being a challenge to both small and big companies in 2020. Persisting threats, such as data breaches and the introduction of new technologies, present new threats such as IoT vulnerabilities and sophisticated malware. As such, companies looking to embrace the use of IT should implement various measures to avoid such unending attacks from notorious cybercriminals. Protecting mobile devices, the cloud, and ensuring that highly experienced IT personnel run security strategies in a company is a good way of staying safe.
