In cybersecurity, Distributed Denial of Service attacks continue to be a persistent threat. As we step into the year 2024, it’s essential to keep a keen eye on the emerging DDoS trends that may shape cybersecurity. Understanding these trends is crucial for individuals and organisations to bolster their defence mechanisms and stay one step ahead of malicious actors. So, explore five key ddos attack trends to watch out for in 2024.
Multi-Vector Attacks on the Rise
One significant trend in these threats is the increasing prevalence of multi-vector attacks. Malicious actors are becoming more sophisticated, combining various techniques to overwhelm their targets. They often involve a mix of volumetric, application-layer, and protocol-based choices.
By diversifying their tactics, cybercriminals can bypass traditional security measures, making mitigation more challenging. To defend against multi-vector threats, organisations should invest in advanced DDoS mitigation solutions that can detect and thwart a wide range of attack vectors.
IoT Devices as Botnet Enablers
The Internet of Things (IoT) is expanding at an unprecedented rate, with billions of connected devices now part of our daily lives. Unfortunately, this growth also provides opportunities for cybercriminals to harness IoT devices as botnet enablers for these attacks. In 2024, people can expect to see an uptick in attacks leveraging compromised IoT devices.
To mitigate this threat, device manufacturers need to prioritise security by design, ensuring that IoT devices are less susceptible to exploitation. Users should also regularly update and secure their IoT devices, changing default passwords and implementing robust security configurations. Network administrators must segment IoT traffic from critical infrastructure to limit the potential damage of compromised devices.
AI-Powered Distributed Denial of Service Attacks
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are not only benefiting cybersecurity but are also being weaponized by cyber criminals. In 2024, people can anticipate a surge in AI-powered Denial of Service attacks. They can adapt and gain info from their environment, making them more resilient and capable of evading traditional defences.
Organisations should harness AI and ML’s power to counter an AI-powered ddos attack. Implementing AI-driven security solutions can help identify and mitigate threats in real-time. Human analysts can work with AI systems to fine-tune responses and stay ahead of evolving threats.
Cloud Services as Targets
As businesses have started migrating their operations to the cloud, cybercriminals are shifting focus to target cloud-based services. Attacks on cloud infrastructure can have severe consequences, causing widespread disruption to various online services and businesses.
In 2024, organisations must prioritise cloud security by implementing robust DDoS mitigation solutions designed for cloud environments. Leveraging a cloud service provider’s security features and setting up redundancy can also help maintain service availability during an attack. Regular penetration testing and vulnerability assessments need to be done to identify and rectify potential weaknesses.
Increased Use of Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
Zero-day vulnerabilities, which are undisclosed and unpatched software flaws, pose a significant risk in cybersecurity. In 2024, cybercriminals are likely to exploit zero-day vulnerabilities to launch these onslaughts, as they provide an element of surprise and make mitigation efforts more challenging.
Organisations should prioritise vulnerability management to defend against these threats and regularly update software and systems to minimise exposure. Additionally, monitoring for unusual network behaviour and traffic patterns can help detect potential zero-day attacks early on, enabling prompt mitigation.
Conclusion
As the ddos attack threat continues to evolve and grow in sophistication, individuals and organisations must stay informed about emerging trends in cybersecurity. In 2024, the rise of multi-vector threats, IoT-based botnets, AI-powered attacks, cloud service targeting, and zero-day vulnerabilities will shape DDoS. By adopting proactive security measures, leveraging advanced mitigation solutions, and staying vigilant, we can better protect ourselves against these evolving threats and ensure a more secure digital future.