It is undeniable that, in recent years, cyber attacks have become a part of daily life for companies, increasingly becoming a major concern for their employees. And the news is not good!

In 2023, a cyber attack was recorded every 39 seconds. The situation only worsened in 2024, with a 30% increase in global attacks (Source).

2023: No One Was Safe!

According to a study by Cybersecurity Ventures, in 2023, every 39 seconds someone was digitally attacked. Victims ranged from large organizations to individual users; no one was safe. The most commonly used methods were malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.

But after all, what are each of these attacks?

• Malware: It refers to software that invades, damages, and disables computer systems, networks, and devices. There are different types of malware, all aimed at compromising the security of a company's internal information. This was one of the greatest threats, with 1 billion active malware instances.
• Ransomware: This type of attack encrypts files or blocks access to a system or device. It usually causes more damage to organisations that store critical information. Once installed, cybercriminals demand a ransom from companies to unlock access to the system, and, finding themselves with few alternatives, companies pay the ransom.
• Phishing: This attack tends to impact daily activities. With artificial intelligence, new modalities have emerged, such as modeling real voices and smishing attacks carried out via WhatsApp or SMS.

Many companies were halted and a lot of data was stolen. The increase in remote workers and access to networks through different devices created a perfect battlefield for cybercrimes.

2024: Now Is the Time

If 2023 was bad, 2024 is proving to be a true digital hell. According to Check Point's report, cyber attacks have increased by 30%. Access to new technologies and the expansion of the Internet of Things (IoT) have broadened the possibilities for attacks. It is becoming increasingly common for hackers to use ransomware to infiltrate system defences (Source).

To avoid these headaches, we present you with some solutions to follow:

1. Real-time Updates: Always keep your software updated. In case of outdated software, your company welcomes attacks.
2. Educate the Team: Have you heard the phrase "knowledge is power"? Well, educate yourself and your team to recognise threats.
3. Make BackupsTo avoid losing everything, have backup copies of your data in secure locations.

Investing in advanced digital security measures is your best weapon. These measures were not created in vain. Just like the mandatory compliance with NIS2, required by the European Union by October 17, 2024, é crucial devido à criticidade e ao número crescente de ataques cibernéticos.

Don't let your company be caught off guard. Protect yourself before you have no system left to tell the story.