Cybersecurity in the modern world: Understanding today's challenges and their evolution

The modern era of ‘hyperconnectivity’ brings with it a surge of cyber threats that cannot be overlooked by businesses or governments, as underscored by Eric Vedel, Director of Cisco՛s CISO Advisory Practice in EMEA. Encouragingly, professionals in the field of cybersecurity continuously enhance their knowledge and skills, enabling them to identify and effectively neutralize threats.

During the Silicon Mountains 2023 summit, Eric Vedel participated in a panel discussion focusing on "smart business" and emphasized the significance of cybersecurity for both businesses and government entities.

Evolution of cyber threats: How and why?

In a discussion with NEWS.am Tech, the expert highlighted that cybersecurity threats have recently become more intricate and organized. Previously, cyber attacks were primarily the work of individual hackers developing viruses in their garages. Presently, however, we are contending with comprehensive ecosystems, occasionally supported by states and various organizations.

Vedel noted a significant shift in the challenges faced by cybersecurity professionals in recent years. This transformation was triggered not only by the migration of numerous companies to cloud storage but also by the 2019 coronavirus pandemic. The widespread shift to remote work drastically complicated the ability of security specialists to monitor employee connections to company data, their locations, devices used, and activities performed. These changes led to unforeseen issues that were scarcely conceivable just a few years ago.

Tackling modern cyber threats: Strategies and recommendations

To combat contemporary cyber threats, the expert advocates for the integration of machine learning algorithms, facilitating the processing of extensive data and reducing information overload. Vedel highlights the potential of large language models and generative AI to significantly aid security operations center analysts in managing cyber threats.

Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of ensuring the transparency of information systems and enhancing employee awareness of cyber risks as key elements in the fight against cyber threats.

"It is often said in our industry that the weakest point lies between the keyboard and the chair. This refers to humans. But instead of assigning blame, we must educate and empower them, fostering a culture of responsibility," the specialist noted.

In order to bolster cybersecurity in Armenia, he recommends taking the responsibility of educating the younger generation seriously, advocating for the inclusion of comprehensive cyber threat awareness and competency-building programs from early education stages.

Can companies ensure their own cybersecurity?

According to Vedel, small and medium-sized businesses are often better served by seeking assistance from cybersecurity firms, as they may not have the resources to maintain an in-house team of security specialists.

Larger corporations may have dedicated security departments, but they, too, frequently require collaboration with external experts and outsourcing.