The responsibilities of the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) are increasingly evolving in response to the growing frequency of data breaches and cyber threats such as ransomware. This shift is further influenced by SEC mandates requiring public organizations to report significant breaches.

Some of the most rapidly developing areas in enterprise cybersecurity include mobile technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), and operational technology (OT) systems. Currently, a staggering 96.5% of individuals connect to the internet through mobile devices, which are responsible for 59% of all internet traffic. Simultaneously, OT and cyber-physical systems, previously secure and isolated from external networks, are now becoming integrated into corporate infrastructure, creating new vulnerabilities for attacks.

To help understand this evolving threat environment, the Zscaler ThreatLabz research team undertook an in-depth examination of mobile and IoT/OT attack patterns from June 2023 to May 2024.

In their findings, ThreatLabz reported a significant increase in mobile attacks driven by financial motives, observing a 111% rise in spyware and a 29% growth in banking malware—many of which are capable of circumventing multifactor authentication (MFA). Additionally, IoT attacks rose by 45% compared to the previous year, and ThreatLabz uncovered widespread security vulnerabilities within OT settings.

Here, we summarize important insights from the report. To gain a thorough understanding of mobile and IoT/OT trends, along with case studies and best practices to enhance your organization’s security, be sure to download the Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Mobile, IoT, and OT Threat Report.

5. India emerged as the leading target for mobile attacks, facing 28% of all recorded incidents, followed by the United States, Canada, South Africa, and the Netherlands. The United States remains the most targeted country for IoT attacks, encountering 81% of the total incidents, with Singapore, the UK, Germany, and Canada trailing behind.

6. The manufacturing sector was hit hardest by IoT attacks, comprising 36% of all IoT malware blocks documented, while transportation accounted for 14% and the food, beverage & tobacco sector for 11%. The highest incidence of mobile threats was directed at the technology and education sectors.

Zscaler

As cyberattacks targeting mobile and IoT/OT assets become increasingly advanced, organizations must find methods to mitigate cyber risks while also embracing IoT and OT connectivity for business growth. The rise of IoT attacks is notable, with threat actors focusing their efforts on OT devices and critical infrastructure, a concern highlighted by CISA. Simultaneously, businesses need effective ways to secure mobile access to SaaS or private applications, whether they reside in the cloud or on-premises. To safeguard these devices and systems, organizations should implement a zero trust strategy that helps reduce cyber threats and enhances their overall security posture:

With the surge of mobile and IoT/OT threats, it is essential to stay informed about the latest developments, understand the potential impacts of these attacks, and adopt best-practice strategies to protect your organization from a wide array of threats.

Be sure to obtain your copy of the Zscaler ThreatLabz 2024 Mobile, IoT, and OT Threat Report today.

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