Security company Check Point has released concerning statistics revealing a significant rise in cyberattacks, urging individuals to prioritize robust endpoint protection. Cyberattacks have reached a two-year peak, as reported by the firm.
According to Check Point’s data, the second quarter of 2023 witnessed an 8% year-on-year increase in cyberattacks. Given the expected release of numerous event tickets, including the recent sale of Taylor Swift’s tour, the surge in cyberattacks may persist.
The education and research sectors have been heavily impacted, while Africa and the Asia Pacific region have observed the highest year-on-year surge in weekly attacks.
Of particular concern is the prevalence of ransomware attacks, which often involve data theft or encryption and demand substantial ransoms. Shockingly, one in 44 businesses falls victim to ransomware attacks on a weekly basis.
While education and research institutions remain primary targets for cybercriminals, experiencing an average of 2,179 attacks per organization per week, this figure has decreased by 6% compared to the same period in 2022.
Conversely, the government and military sector encountered a 9% year-on-year increase, facing 1,772 attacks per week, indicating ongoing political threats amidst active conflicts. Healthcare witnessed an even more alarming surge of 30%, with a weekly rate of 1,744 attacks, nearly aligning with government-targeted attacks.
Every region experienced an overall increase in attacks, with Europe showing the smallest growth at 5%, compared to Africa and the Asia Pacific region with substantial growth rates of 23% and 22% respectively. APAC also saw a significant rise in ransomware attacks, with one in 26 organizations falling victim to such attacks, along with the Latin Americas.
To combat the escalating cyber threat, Check Point advises businesses to prioritize security patches and adopt a prevention-focused approach rather than relying solely on detection methods. Regular cyber awareness training for employees, who often represent weak points within organizations, is also strongly recommended.
