The year 2025 feels remarkably futuristic. While we may not see any giant robots or time machines (there’s always a chance though), artificial intelligence has become a significant aspect of cyber security, and quantum computing is on the horizon. For a cyber security company, 2025 is an exciting year in prospect. Here are the key trends we anticipate will shape the digital security landscape this year:
1. AI-Powered Cyber Defence
Integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into cyber operations is expected to escalate. Threat actors are already weaving AI into their attacks, by crafting sophisticated phishing schemes, social engineering attacks, and using deepfakes to bypass additional security measures. These tactics will only increase.
However, in 2025, AI will play aa major role in defence too. For example, AI can analyse vast datasets to identify vulnerabilities or predict user behaviour, so attacks can be identified quicker than ever before. With the workforce gap in cyber security as wide as it is, AI could be a key bridge that saves time and money.
2. Quantum Computing and Encryption Challenges
Practical quantum computing is closer than ever and quicker than we expected. 2025 may not be the year that quantum computing arrives in our offices and on our doorsteps, but organisations must prepare for it.
The advent of quantum computing presents both opportunities and challenges. While it promises unparalleled computational power that could revolutionise industries, it also threatens current encryption standards like RSA and ECC. Quantum computers could theoretically break these encryption methods within seconds, rendering traditional cryptographic protections obsolete.
Organisations must proactively explore and implement quantum-resistant encryption methods, such as lattice-based or hash-based cryptography, to safeguard sensitive data against potential future decryption capabilities. Standard-setting bodies like NIST are already working on post-quantum cryptography standards, and businesses should begin planning their transition strategies now.
3. Phishing. It’s Still Here.
Every year, phishing is at the top of the list for cyber threats. And 2025 is no different. Phishing is still the easiest way into someone’s private life. Recent statistics show the growing scale of the threat. According to SlashNext’s 2024 Phishing Intelligence Report, there was a 202% increase in email-based phishing messages in the latter half of 2024, coupled with an astonishing 703% surge in credential phishing attacks.
Phishing is easier than ever in 2025. Despite everything done in our industry to prevent it, phishing always comes down to whether the victim finds the attack believable. With so much of our lives playing out online, attackers can harvest personal information from posts, photos, and public profiles, to create convincing social engineering schemes. Birthdates, locations, work history, and even personal interests are frequently used to make phishing emails or messages appear authentic.
Attackers now use AI to analyse data more efficiently, identify weaknesses, and automate large-scale phishing campaigns.
The only surefire way to stop phishing has always been awareness and vigilance on an individual level. That hasn’t changed for 2025.
3. Infostealer Malware
Infostealer malware, designed to exfiltrate sensitive information such as credentials, financial data, and intellectual property, is projected to remain a prevalent threat. This malware often operates undetected, using stealthy techniques like process injection or exploiting legitimate system tools. Its proliferation underscores the need for robust endpoint protection solutions, regular software updates, and vigilant monitoring of network activities. Additionally, implementing multifactor authentication (MFA) can reduce the risk of stolen credentials being misused.
4. Democratisation of Cyber Capabilities
The accessibility of sophisticated cyber tools is lowering the barrier to entry for less-skilled actors. With the proliferation of malware-as-a-service (MaaS) platforms and open-source hacking tools, a broader spectrum of individuals can launch cyber attacks. This democratisation increases the volume and diversity of threats, making it essential for organisations to enhance their security awareness programs. Comprehensive threat detection systems that incorporate behavioural analytics and automated incident response capabilities can help mitigate risks associated with these increasingly accessible tools.
5. Rise in Web3 and Cryptocurrency Targeting
With the expansion of Web3 technologies and the cryptocurrency market, attackers are increasingly focusing on these sectors. Decentralised platforms, smart contracts, and digital wallets present unique attack vectors, such as re-entrancy attacks or private key theft. The potential for substantial financial gain makes these targets attractive, necessitating enhanced security measures like secure coding practices, regular audits of smart contracts, and implementing multi-signature wallets to protect digital assets.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities of 2025, staying informed and proactive is crucial. From leveraging AI for defence to preparing for the quantum computing era, organisations must adapt to an ever-evolving threat landscape. We’ve prepared a list of resolutions for you to keep this year to make sure you and your organisation stay as safe as possible. Just make sure you stick to them longer than your actual resolutions.
