It has been one year since OXEN Technology’s last cybersecurity report, and I am astounded by the changes that have transpired! The trends we anticipated last year have evolved as expected, while new themes have emerged at the forefront for 2025.
In 2024, cybersecurity regulations and requirements continued to drive the industry forward. Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) gateways are beginning to replace traditional VPN and remote connectivity solutions. Despite increasingly sophisticated phishing attempts, users have become more adept at identifying and avoiding malicious emails.
Looking ahead to 2025, we expect these trends to persist. However, several new topics are gaining momentum in the cybersecurity space, which I describe here. You will want to consider them as you plan for the coming year.
ZERO TRUST NETWORKING
Although Zero Trust Networking is not a new concept, 2025 is expected to witness significant advancements in its implementation, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. Zero Trust Networking operates on the principle that no traffic is inherently trusted, meaning all connections must be explicitly permitted. Traditionally, network configurations have been open, allowing unrestricted communication between devices. Implementing Zero Trust Networking in complex on-premises environments can be labor-intensive, but cloud-based infrastructures simplify the process considerably. By minimizing potential vulnerabilities, Zero Trust Networking effectively curtails the spread of threats like ransomware, ensuring minimal disruption to user productivity — except when new connections are required, which should always be subject to proper authorization.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is set to revolutionize business operations in 2025, with significant developments from industry giants such as Microsoft and Google. Microsoft’s Copilot for Business, for instance, integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365 and leverages the extensive data within emails, Teams messages, and OneDrive files to enhance efficiency. However, it is crucial to educate users on the importance of avoiding the input of private company data into public AI systems. Ensuring that AI systems are developed by trusted vendors who have established credibility is essential to maintaining data security. The proliferation of AI is expected to bring substantial operational efficiencies, though it is vital to approach its integration with a vigilant cybersecurity perspective.
GEOPOLITICAL TENSIONS
There is now significant geopolitical turmoil around the globe. Foreign government actors are increasingly positioning themselves to launch cyberattacks on U.S. critical infrastructure. Notably, Chinese actors have been detected within the networks of critical infrastructure companies. Traditionally, China has been known to hack and steal company data to benefit their own industries. However, their current presence in these networks with potential access for attacks marks a significant shift in their operational tactics. This behavior is believed to be a preparation for a possible Taiwan invasion and to enable an offensive against the U.S. should intervention occur.
Given this context, it is advisable to conduct a penetration test to identify existing vulnerabilities within your infrastructure — vulnerabilities that are invariably present in every system. While addressing these weak points may not entirely prevent unauthorized access, it could inhibit intruders from navigating and gaining comprehensive control over your network. Timely action is recommended as resources to secure infrastructures may become scarce in the event of widespread attacks.
WINDOWS 10 TO WINDOWS 11
Lastly, Windows 10 will reach its end of life on October 14th, 2025. It is imperative to address this change proactively. After this date, systems running Windows 10 will no longer receive security patches, making them prime targets for hackers. If your Windows 10 operating system is compatible with Windows 11, an upgrade should be considered. If not, planning for a replacement to secure compatible hardware is essential. New enhanced AI processors are emerging, offering superior processing capabilities. When assessing new computer systems, consider the role of AI in your future technology strategy, as its relevance will undoubtedly increase.
By Ryan Pieken, CIO/CISO Services
These trends and developments are expected to significantly shape the cybersecurity landscape in 2025. We recommend you take proactive measures to ensure a secure and prosperous year. Call OXEN Technology for help at 888.296.3619.
