Check Point Software Technologies, a leading provider of cloud-delivered, AI-powered cybersecurity platforms, announced the launch of its comprehensive 2024 Annual Security Report. The report focuses on the growing complexity of cyber threats with an in-depth look at the rise in ransomware incidents and the innovative use of AI in cybersecurity defenses.
The report reveals a 90% increase in victims of publicly extorted ransomware attacks compared to the previous year, now accounting for 10% of all malware detected by Check Point’s sensors. Notably, the Check Point Incident Response Team (CPIRT) found that almost half of the cases handled involved ransomware, with the number of victims publicly shamed reaching around 5,000, double the number of last year.
The report’s findings include recognition of attackers’ refinement of strategies by exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities and enhancing Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) with new extortion tactics. In particular, high-value targets are increasingly in the crosshairs, highlighting the need for robust defense systems.
The paper also focuses on the growing trend of attacks against edge devices, drawing attention to the critical need for comprehensive security measures that include all network elements. Furthermore, he discusses the rise of state-sponsored hacktivism, with a significant increase in cyber activities linked to geopolitical conflicts, signaling the evolving nature of cyber warfare.
Maya Horowitz, vice president of research at Check Point, explained: “In an era of relentless innovation in cybercrime and growing tensions involving state threat actors and hacktivists on a global scale, organizations must adapt. Cloud-delivered cybersecurity measures and proactive promotion of collaboration are essential to effectively guard against these evolving dangers.
The 2024 Security Report is an indispensable resource for organizations, policymakers and cybersecurity professionals, offering crucial insights into attack trends and providing guidance for improving cyber resilience. This report is based on data drawn from Check Point ThreatCloud’s AI Cyber Threat Map, sharing essential insights into the top tactics cybercriminals use in their attacks.
Check Point Research provides cyber threat intelligence to Check Point Software customers and the intelligence community at large. The research team collects and analyzes global cyberattack data stored on ThreatCloud AI to keep hackers at bay, while ensuring all Check Point products are updated with the latest protections. The research team consists of more than 100 analysts and researchers cooperating with other security vendors, law enforcement, and various CERTs.
