Cybersecurity With adNET: 2024 Year in Review

The cybersecurity landscape of 2024 has been both challenging and revealing. From critical infrastructure threats to advancements in cybercrime toolkits, businesses worldwide were reminded that vigilance and adaptability are non-negotiable. For enterprises and small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs), the evolving threat landscape has highlighted vulnerabilities that require immediate attention and proactive steps to mitigate risks.

This article takes a closer look at some of the most impactful cybersecurity events of 2024, lessons learned, and actionable cybersecurity tips to help you approach 2025 with stronger defenses.

Major Cybersecurity Incidents of 2024

1. Vulnerability Chains in Critical Infrastructure

Security concerns within industrial control systems (ICS) grew significantly this year. Researchers identified critical vulnerabilities in control systems like water plants, energy grids, and manufacturing equipment. One such vulnerability chain, disclosed by cybersecurity firm Forescout, allowed attackers to exploit flaws in ICS equipment to manipulate operational technology.

Using these flaws, attackers demonstrated the capability to tamper with critical infrastructure, including scenarios such as mismanaging industrial machinery or even rendering municipal power grids inoperable. These alarming findings have pushed governments and organizations to reevaluate their protections for critical infrastructure.

Key takeaway: ICS security isn't just a sector issue—it's a national priority. Businesses involved in supply chains or logistics that interact with sensitive industrial systems should adopt strict security practices to protect both their organization and the networks they connect to.

2. SMB Cyber Threat Landscape Evolves

Huntress’s November report painted a sobering picture for SMBs in 2024. Their study revealed that these businesses are common targets of cybercrime due to constrained resources and less robust defenses compared to larger enterprises. Among the key trends:

• A 30% increase in ransomware attacks on small businesses.
• A rise in "entry-level" attacks, where criminals used phishing and weak credentials to access systems before selling compromised access to more sophisticated attackers.
• Malware disguised in legitimate-seeming tools, particularly productivity and collaboration software.

Key takeaway: Even businesses without a high public profile aren't immune to being a target. Small businesses need clear strategies and updated tools to ensure they are not low-hanging fruit for attackers.

3. Adversary-in-the-Middle (AiTM) Phishing Kits Thrive

Microsoft reported on the rise of advanced phishing kits distributed by DEV-1101, making it easier for attackers to launch sophisticated phishing campaigns. These phishing kits, available for rent on black-market forums, allowed even less experienced cybercriminals to intercept login credentials and multi-factor authentication data.

By enabling the replication of legitimate platforms like Microsoft 365 and Gmail, these tools lowered the barrier for cybercrime, exemplifying how accessible and industrialized cybercriminal tools have become.

Key takeaway: Even basic cyber hygiene, such as avoiding suspicious emails and enabling multi-factor authentication, is not enough anymore. Businesses should plan for advanced social engineering attacks and adopt tools that go beyond password protection, such as automated user behavior analysis.

4. Data Breaches in Big-Tech and Beyond

Notable breaches returned to headlines in 2024, with companies like Uber and smaller SaaS providers reporting significant leaks. One of the most impactful incidents revealed details of personal data, including Social Security Numbers, that were exposed in a vendor-related breach.

Key takeaway: Supply chain data security is everyone’s responsibility. Operating partners and third-party providers should uphold security protocols comparable to hiring organizations.

5. CISA Ramps Up Federal Security Guidelines

Federal organizations refocused their cybersecurity practices in light of rising threats. CISA issued Binding Operational Directive 24-01, mandating prompt fixes for reported vulnerabilities on government networks. Their requirements influenced downstream businesses working on federal contracts, emphasizing proactive defense measures.

Key takeaway: Stay attuned to regulations that affect your organization—compliance offers not just legal benefits but critical safeguards.

Lessons Learned from 2024 Cybersecurity Incidents

Looking back at these key incidents, some lessons stand out as universally critical for better cybersecurity.

1. Employee Education Matters

Employees, whether remote or in-office, are a company's first line of defense. Preventing phishing scams, social engineering, or accidental data loss often comes down to how informed and careful employees are with company resources. Regular cybersecurity training is not optional—it's essential.

2. Prioritize Endpoint Security

With hybrid working environments becoming the norm, companies are managing more endpoints than ever before. Ensuring that each device accessing the network adheres to strict security protocols is key.

3. Don’t Overlook Backups

A robust backup strategy can make the difference between catastrophic data loss and swift recovery. Ensure that backups are encrypted, conducted regularly, and securely stored offline whenever possible.

4. Shift Passwords to Passkeys

Tools like GitHub’s new passkey feature are the future of authentication. Replacing traditional passwords with passkeys minimizes risks associated with stolen credentials and strengthens overall access control.

5. Build a Proactive Incident Response Plan

The organizations that handled attacks most efficiently in 2024 were those with well-rehearsed incident response plans. Having a clear roadmap allows teams to act decisively during data breaches, minimizing downtime and fallout.

Cybersecurity Tips for 2025

Cybersecurity is not just a technology challenge; it’s a people, process, and technology issue. Here are some ways your business can start the new year with stronger defenses:

• Adopt Zero-Trust Architecture: Treat every application, connection, and device attempting to access your environment as untrusted until verified.
• Implement Continuous Monitoring: Use advanced detection systems to identify anomalous activity before it turns into a full-blown attack.
• Use Collaboration Tools Securely: Tools for team communication and file sharing are often exploited. Conduct risk analysis before onboarding any new third-party platforms.
• Plan for Worst-Case Scenarios: Test your backup restoration process and incident response plan so you can handle attacks without delays.
• Engage Experts: Partnering with cybersecurity specialists improves the likelihood of spotting vulnerabilities that might escape internal teams.

2024 proved that no organization, regardless of size or status, is immune to cyber threats. By reflecting on the past year's incidents and implementing these cybersecurity tips, you can secure your business and maintain a competitive edge as we enter 2025.