Factors Behind Vulnerabilities
Why Are There So Many Vulnerabilities?
The Factors Behind Cyber Threats in 2024
The rapid increase in vulnerabilities is closely linked to the evolution of technology and the world of cybercrime. Research conducted in 2023 and 2024 has clearly highlighted the key factors contributing to this rise in vulnerabilities.
Below, you will find a detailed analysis of these factors, illustrated with various news and research examples.
1. Rapid Software Development and Deployment Processes
Accelerated software development processes play a major role in the increase in vulnerabilities. Agile and DevOps methodologies have enabled software releases to be launched quickly; however, security testing is often overlooked during this process. According to the 2024 report by Qualys, vulnerabilities in publicly accessible applications stand out as the most common initial access vector for attackers. The lack of security testing particularly exposes public-facing applications as prime targets for cybercriminals.
For example, a critical vulnerability discovered in Ivanti Connect Secure software in 2024 (CVE-2024-21887) was quickly exploited by attackers. This command injection vulnerability allowed attackers to execute remote commands on affected systems, specifically targeting systems behind firewalls. Rated with a CVSS score (criticality level) of 9.1, this vulnerability impacted numerous organizations, including U.S. government agencies and large enterprises.
2. The Proliferation of New Technologies
The widespread adoption of technologies such as IoT (Internet of Things) and cloud computing increases the number and complexity of vulnerabilities. Many IoT devices are released without fully implementing security protocols, creating a broad attack surface. Research by MDPI highlights that the security deficiencies of IoT devices pose significant risks, particularly regarding data integrity, privacy, and access control.
In 2023, DDoS attacks carried out using IoT devices through the Mirai botnet targeted internet service providers worldwide, affecting millions of users. Such attacks serve as a reminder of the large-scale impacts that security gaps in new technologies can cause.
3. Advanced Techniques Employed by Cybercriminals
Zero-day vulnerabilities are quickly exploited by cybercriminals. Threats like ransomware have become even more complex in 2024. The 2024 report by Trellix Advanced Research Center details how cybercriminals are using AI-assisted attacks, allowing them to discover vulnerabilities more swiftly.
One example of these advanced techniques is the MOVEit Transfer vulnerability that emerged in 2023, affecting over 1,000 companies. This vulnerability rapidly led to data theft and ransomware attacks, causing millions of dollars in damages worldwide.
4. Software Supply Chain Attacks
Supply chain attacks have become a critical factor in the rise of vulnerabilities.
While supply chain attacks do not directly increase the number of vulnerabilities, they create an environment where new vulnerabilities can be discovered and exploited through every link in the supply chain.
Supply chain attacks have become a significant method for spreading vulnerabilities and creating widespread impact.
The SolarWinds attack is one of the most notable examples, affecting thousands of businesses worldwide. Such attacks can exploit the vulnerability of a software provider to impact a much broader range of targets. Research by CISA and NIST indicates that supply chain attacks pose a persistent threat, particularly for large-scale organizations.
5. Insufficient Security Training and Awareness
Lastly, the human factor plays a significant role in the increase of vulnerabilities. As social engineering attacks become more sophisticated, the lack of security awareness among employees increases the success rate of these attacks. In 2024, a vulnerability in Ivanti was exploited due to mistakes in password management by employees, leading to breaches in many organizations.
What Does the Future Hold?
The increase in vulnerabilities throughout 2024 can be attributed to factors such as the evolving techniques of cybercriminals, the widespread adoption of technologies like IoT and cloud computing, and the lack of security testing. However, adopting more proactive security strategies seems to be the only way to mitigate the impact of these vulnerabilities in the future.
New approaches like continuous exposure management ensure that systems are continuously monitored and vulnerabilities are detected in real-time, enabling greater resilience against future attacks.
Stay One Step Ahead in Security with IncidentProof
In this period where cyber threats are becoming increasingly complex and vulnerability management is critically important, IncidentProof offers businesses integrated and comprehensive solutions to enhance their security processes. Through its modules for vulnerability management, incident response, and system monitoring, IncidentProof enables businesses to take proactive measures against cyber threats.
With advanced technologies like “continuous exposure management,” IncidentProof continuously monitors your systems, identifies potential vulnerabilities in advance, and allows for rapid intervention. Additionally, its AI-powered analysis tools help prioritize vulnerabilities, ensuring business continuity while making it easier to keep your data secure.
