Is your company really ready to face the threats of the digital world? In 2022, 941% of Spanish companies reported incidents such as ransomware, malware, and phishing. This figure shows that security It is a priority that you cannot leave for later.

In 2024, AI will change the way we attack and defend. Social engineering attacks are more convincing, but the same technology helps detect anomalous patterns quickly.

Recent cases—such as the Microsoft account breach and the third-party breach in Australia—remind us that a single weak link can cost a company data, reputation, and operational continuity.

This article will guide you with clear signs and practical steps you can take today. We don't promise magic solutions, but we do offer a path to prioritizing risks and knowing when to seek expert advice.

Context 2024: new threats, larger attack surface and greater responsibilities

The combination of artificial intelligence and connected services is redefining digital risk this year. AI makes fake messages seem real and, at the same time, helps detect anomalous patterns if used well.

The attack surface grows because there is more devices and services outside your network. Remote work, IoT, and third-party providers expand the entry points.

The role of AI in attacks and defense

AI has a important role: This strengthens the credibility of phishing attacks and improves real-time detection. Therefore, you should evaluate both the risk and the value of using these same tools each time.

Actual cost of incidents

A technical failure can lead to downtime, customer loss, and brand damage. The attack in Australia, via a vendor, exposed 2.5 million documents and shows how a third party can impact your business.

• New threats don't just affect systems; they affect supply chains and shared information.
• Cyberattacks can be silent and prolonged before being noticed.
• Not everything requires large investments: improving habits and processes can be an immediate step forward.

9 Warning Signs: Cybersecurity Improvements You Shouldn't Ignore

Small, everyday mistakes are often warning signs of bigger risks. Recognizing these signs helps you prioritize practical, non-technical actions.

Recurring phishing or social engineering errors among employees

If your employees fall again and again, schedule short training sessions and drills. Start with clear messages and quarterly exercises.

Weak authentication

Repeated passwords without MFA make it easier to gain access. Enable multi-factor authentication and require regular password changes.

Unpatched systems and software

Outdated systems open up familiar doors. Define update windows and verify that your software is up to date.

Absence of recovery plan

Not having verified backups is critical. Document a plan, test restorations, and measure recovery times.

Excessive access and broad privileges

Review permissions and apply the principle of least privilege. Segment roles to reduce the impact of an attack.

Uncontrolled mobile devices and IoT

Inventory devices and apply basic encryption. Simple policies reduce risks on personal and business devices.

Gaps in remote work

Access without VPN or MFA facilitates intrusions. Define clear usage rules and secure networks for employees away from the office.

Ignored alerts

If notifications aren't reviewed, visibility is lacking. Assign responsible parties and resources to respond in a timely manner.

Dependence on a few key people

Having only one or two people creates fragility. Document processes and share responsibilities with expert training and support.

"Combined signals increase the risk to your data; prioritize small, consistent steps to improve protection."

Examples and data that confirm the current risk

Public evidence confirms that third-party attacks can cause massive damage to information and operations. Here are concrete examples to help you see the risks and prioritize actions.

94% companies in Spain and the reality of 2022

A Deloitte report indicated that 941% of Spanish companies reported incidents such as ransomware, malware, and phishing. This shows that the risk is real and close., and that sensitive data and information are often the target.

Australia: Outreach to a Committed Third Party

In January, a breach involving a law firm with access to government services exposed 2.5 million documents and affected 65 agencies. It is an example of how a supplier can multiply the impact about a company or institution.

Microsoft's lesson on authentication

In November 2023, password spraying attacks allowed access to emails and documents on key devices. The conclusion is clear: strong passwords without MFA aren't enough. Strengthen access controls and monitoring.

"Verifying suppliers, strengthening authentication, and monitoring access reduces the potential impact of a cyberattack."

• Ransomware and phishing remain active and affect operational data.
• Check out third-party services and test answers with experts.
• Prioritize layered protection: authentication, access control, and monitoring.

Practical measures to close gaps without technicalities

Start with clear steps your team can implement today. We don't promise magic solutions, but we do promise actions that reduce risk and improve information protection.

Continuing education and drills: learn to detect deception

Schedule short, quarterly sessions for employees with phishing drills. Training reduces errors and lowers the click-through rate on malicious emails.

Implement MFA and manage passwords

Activate MFA where access is critical; it's often the most cost-effective measure.

Define password policies: unique, long, and managed with reliable software.

Progressively upgrade, segment, and implement Zero Trust

Keep systems and software up-to-date and automate patches if you're short on resources.

Segment networks starting with higher-risk areas and implement Zero Trust gradually.

Test your recovery plan

Document a recovery plan and perform real-world restores from isolated backups. This reduces the impact of ransomware and speeds recovery.

"Small, repeated steps create stronger defenses than complex, one-off changes."

• Measures: patching time, click rate on drills, and restoration success.
• Select security solutions with clear audit trails and logs.

Trends that impact your risks and opportunities for improvement

This year's technology trends redefine where and how risks arise for your business. Here you'll see how to make practical decisions without complicating things.

AI and ML in detection and response: faster, better context

AI and machine learning They analyze signals in real time and help you prioritize alerts. This reduces noise and speeds up response.

Look for solutions that integrate useful telemetry and actionable alerts. They're not foolproof, but they improve team effectiveness.

Mobile and IoT Security: Cryptography, Inventory, and Standards

In mobile and IoT devices, a clear inventory and minimal policies yield significant benefits with little effort.

Apply basic encryption and known standards. Log access and control updates to reduce immediate risks.

Post-quantum cryptography and insurance on the rise

Post-quantum technology encourages you to evaluate your cryptography without panic: prioritize based on data exposure.

Cyber insurance requires evidence of controls. A good plan and active records can lower premiums and speed recovery.

"Trends add layers, not replace the basics: access, backups, and patches remain a priority."

• Define simple measures: triggered logs, helpful alerts, and regular expert reviews.
• Prioritize critical resources if resources are lacking: access, backups, and patches.
• Build in stages with quarterly goals and clear metrics.

Conclusion

Finally, turn observations into clear priorities to protect your data. Honestly review your security controls and prioritize measures that have a real impact on your company's information.

Each basic step you implement reduces the attack surface and improves cyberattack preparedness. Establish short verification cycles and document changes easily.

Focus on practical protection: Employee controls, critical access, and recovery testing. If you suspect an attack or see phishing, act quickly and consult with specialists.

We don't promise magic solutions. Use metrics, insurance, and external support when needed, and remember that cybersecurity is an ongoing process that you can improve every day.