Cybersecurity threats have been on the rise in 2024, with Kaspersky reporting a significant increase in the number of malicious files detected daily. According to Kaspersky’s annual Security Bulletin, the company’s detection systems found an average of 467,000 malicious files each day this year, a 14% increase compared to the previous year. This rise highlights the escalating intensity and complexity of cyberattacks, with certain types of threats, particularly Trojans, showing a sharp increase in prevalence.
The most notable trend observed by Kaspersky experts was a 33% surge in Trojan detections. Trojans, which are malicious programs that disguise themselves as legitimate software, have become a dominant threat in the cybersecurity landscape. These programs often infect users’ systems by appearing as harmless files or applications, leading victims to unknowingly download and execute them. Alongside Trojans, there has been a 150% increase in the use of Trojan-droppers—programs designed to deliver additional malware to a victim’s device without detection. This rise in Trojan activity is a significant development, as it demonstrates an ongoing shift in cybercriminal strategies towards stealthier, more persistent forms of malware.
Despite the varied landscape of cyber threats, Windows remains the primary target for attackers. Kaspersky’s data reveals that Windows operating systems account for 93% of all malware detected, making them the most heavily targeted platform. The prevalence of malware targeting Windows underscores the importance of security measures for users and organizations relying on this widely-used operating system.
In addition to the Trojan surge, Kaspersky also identified other disturbing trends in cyberattacks this year. One major area of concern has been attacks targeting trusted relationships and supply chains. These attacks, including those involving open-source packages like the XZ case, represent a growing threat to the integrity of widely-used software and systems. Cybercriminals have increasingly focused on exploiting these vulnerabilities to gain access to larger networks and spread malware across a range of platforms.
Phishing attacks and campaigns targeting social media users also spiked in 2024. The rise of social media as a communication and transaction tool has made these platforms a prime target for cybercriminals looking to exploit personal and financial information. Additionally, banking malware has seen a resurgence, with criminals increasingly using sophisticated methods to steal sensitive financial data from individuals and organizations.
One of the most concerning developments in the cybersecurity world this year has been the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate new malware or facilitate phishing attacks. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to automate and scale their attacks, making it more difficult for traditional security systems to keep up. This highlights the need for advanced security solutions capable of adapting to the evolving nature of cyber threats.
Kaspersky’s findings reflect the broader trend of growing cyber threats that have been observed globally. As cybercriminals continue to develop new techniques and exploit emerging technologies, the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been more urgent. Kaspersky experts emphasize the importance of using reliable security solutions to stay protected against these increasingly sophisticated threats.
For individual users, Kaspersky recommends a series of practical steps to enhance security. These include avoiding the download of applications from untrusted sources, steering clear of suspicious online advertisements, and always using two-factor authentication when available. It is also advised to create strong, unique passwords and make use of a password manager. Regularly updating software and ensuring security systems are not disabled are essential practices for minimizing the risk of cyberattacks.
