Global cyberattacks surged by 44% in the past year, driven by the changing nature of nation-state threats and the growing use of generative AI. According to The 2025 State of Cybersecurity from Check Point Software’s annual report, nation-states have shifted their approach from short-term assaults to prolonged campaigns to undermine trust and destabilize critical systems. These changes are part of what we expect in 2025 cybersecurity trends.
The report offers critical insights into the evolving threat landscape. Highlighting advancements in AI, ransomware strategies, and supply chain vulnerabilities, the report provides a roadmap for organizations to fortify defenses. The research spans data from over 170 countries, emphasizing real-world impacts and emerging risks for enterprises and governments. Such insights are valuable in understanding 2025’s cybersecurity trends.
AI-Driven Threats in 2024
Artificial intelligence has emerged as a double-edged sword. While aiding innovation, it has significantly boosted cybercriminal operations. AI-powered disinformation campaigns influenced almost 50% of global elections between September 2023 and February 2024. Deepfakes and bots were key tools for manipulating public opinion and destabilizing democracies, particularly in the U.S., Taiwan, and Moldova. The ease with which these tools polarize societies raises significant concerns for future electoral processes. These concerns are high on the list of 2025 cybersecurity trends to watch.
Ransomware Evolution
Ransomware tactics have shifted from encrypting data to pure extortion. Groups now focus on stealing sensitive information and threatening to leak it unless paid. Healthcare systems have become prime targets, making up 10% of reported ransomware victims in 2024. The Synnovis breach in the UK disrupted thousands of medical services, showcasing the far-reaching impacts of these attacks. Notably, the median ransom payment hovered around $200,000, while high-profile cases like Change Healthcare saw damages exceeding $800 million.
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities
Supply chain security remains a critical challenge, with hardware and software providers frequently targeted. Attacks on Ivanti’s Connect Secure VPNs and Fortinet’s systems highlight how vulnerabilities in widely used products expose organizations to significant risks. Infostealers, once considered basic malware, have evolved into potent tools, harvesting credentials for accessing corporate systems. With infostealers available for as little as $10 per batch on dark web markets, they serve as a gateway for larger-scale breaches. Addressing supply chain vulnerabilities is essential in the context of 2025 cybersecurity trends.
Regional Analysis of Cyber Threats
Nation-state actors have intensified their operations. Chinese campaigns, such as those by Volt Typhoon, exploited U.S. critical infrastructure using living-off-the-land (LOTL) techniques. Similarly, Russian groups deployed destructive malware like AcidPour to disrupt Ukrainian critical systems, blending cyber espionage with hybrid warfare. Iranian-backed campaigns demonstrated sophisticated disinformation strategies, combining phishing with malware to manipulate political outcomes.
Emerging Trends in Hybrid Networks
As organizations adopt hybrid cloud systems, lateral movement between on-premise and cloud networks has become a favored tactic for attackers. Edge devices, including IoT systems and routers, are particularly vulnerable due to outdated security protocols. While router vulnerabilities have been a recurring issue for over a decade, their exploitation remains highly effective. In contrast, AI-driven exploits represent a newer, rapidly growing challenge.
Critical Infrastructure Under Fire
Healthcare systems faced unprecedented targeting in 2024. Ransomware attacks, such as those on Romania’s hospitals and the UK’s NHS-associated Synnovis, disrupted essential services and jeopardized patient care. These incidents underline the need for robust defenses in sectors where downtime can be life-threatening. Data extortion now poses a larger risk than traditional encryption-based attacks, as attackers prioritize operational disruption and reputational damage.
Incident Response Learnings
Collaboration between organizations and law enforcement has proven vital in combating ransomware. Operations like Cronos dismantled major players like LockBit, seizing servers and exposing affiliate networks. However, the decentralized nature of ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) ensures new groups rapidly fill the void left by dismantled organizations. Despite successes, international cooperation remains essential to counteract the global scale of these threats.
Cybersecurity Predictions for 2025
The coming year is poised to see further exploitation of AI in cyberattacks. Hacktivist alliances are expected to grow, blending ideological motives with state-backed operations. Ransomware groups are likely to refine extortion methods, focusing on data leaks and avoiding encryption to streamline operations.
Recommendations for CISOs:
- Regularly updating and patching edge devices and critical systems.
- Enhancing hybrid network security to detect lateral movement.
- Conducting rigorous employee training to combat phishing and disinformation.
- Adopting advanced threat detection tools to identify AI-driven attacks early.
Conclusion
The 2025 cybersecurity landscape depicted in Check Point Software’s annual report reflects a blend of enduring challenges, like router vulnerabilities, and emerging threats, such as AI-driven disinformation. Organizations must adapt swiftly, leveraging collaboration and innovative defenses to stay ahead. As the threat environment evolves, preparedness and vigilance will be key to ensuring resilience. It’s vital to stay informed about 2025 cybersecurity trends.
