The year that will be?

As we enter 2017 with renewed vigour and enthusiasm, let's take a step back and consider what the year 2017 will bring (in relation to Cyber-Security). Immediately, we have Professor Richard Benham, chairman of the National Cyber Management Centre, giving a dire warning: "A major bank will fail as a result of a cyber-attack in 2017 leading to a loss of confidence and a run on that bank."

As we increase in the number of devices (Internet of Things), we increase the amount of devices (attack surface) which could be managed for a DDoS attack, by 2020 it is forecasted that there will be 34 billion connect devices. Additionally, as we expand our Artificial Intelligent capability, we enable the ability to generate a smart system that can craft contextually aware attacks to the individual (resonating with the target and therefore more likely to fall victim).

There isn't a way to escape the cyber-security (problem) of 2017, rather we must adopt, collaborate and enhance capability within some key principles.

1. The efforts to improve cybersecurity must properly reflect the borderless, interconnected, and global nature of today's cyber environment
2. Efforts to improve cybersecurity must be based on risk management
3. Efforts to improve must focus on awareness
4. Patch vulnerable systems and software
5. Protect privileged accounts