In 2024, cybercriminals focused heavily on exploiting vulnerabilities in web browsers, according to a year-end report by Check Point Software. This year saw the largest ransom ever paid—to the Dark Angels group—amounting to an unprecedented $75 million. The healthcare and government sectors bore the brunt of these attacks, accounting for 67% of all ransomware incidents. The average cost of mitigating an attack for businesses reached $2.57 million.
As organizations increasingly relied on SaaS platforms, cloud applications, remote work, and Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policies in 2024, the frequency of AI-driven attacks, Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS), and zero-day vulnerabilities in browsers surged. Traditional solutions, such as endpoint security and email protection, proved inadequate. Advanced technologies and browser protection policies—both in office environments and personal use—became critical for securing digital workplaces.
AI-Powered Phishing and RaaS Dominate the Threat Landscape
The scale of phishing and social engineering attacks driven by AI was alarming in 2024. Cybercriminals leveraged generative AI to craft phishing messages nearly indistinguishable from genuine communications. According to GlobeNewswire, 89% of browser-based threats originated from phishing, with attackers bypassing traditional security filters more effectively.
Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) emerged as an increasingly popular tool for criminals. In the first half of 2024, the average ransom demand exceeded $5.2 million, culminating in the record-setting $75 million ransom payment.
Zero-Day Vulnerabilities in Browsers Cause Havoc
Check Point also noted a rise in zero-day vulnerabilities in browsers like Chrome and Edge. A particularly high-profile case involved CVE-2024-7971, a flaw in Chrome’s JavaScript V8 engine that allowed remote execution of malicious code. The consequences were severe, including operational downtimes, data leaks, and expensive recovery processes.
Poland Faces Record Cyberattacks
Poland experienced a dramatic increase in cyberattacks, potentially surpassing 110,000 incidents in 2024, according to Check Point Research. Alongside Ukraine, Poland has been a top target for hacking groups over the past two years, with critical infrastructure and information systems under constant assault. Weekly, Polish organizations in high-risk sectors—such as utilities and government-military systems—faced over 2,150 attacks.
While generative AI platforms like ChatGPT and MidJourney revolutionized workplaces, they also introduced risks tied to sensitive data exposure. Nearly 40% of employees admitted to sharing business data with AI tools, unaware of potential repercussions. Incidents included a malware attack on ChatGPT, leading to the leak of 225,000 authentication datasets, and Samsung employees inadvertently disclosing source code.
The Growing Importance of Browser Security
With the rise in browser-targeted attacks, implementing browser protection solutions became essential. Attacks per employee increased by 24% in the first half of 2024, prompting companies to adopt advanced technologies like browser isolation. While effective at blocking malware, this technology’s limitations—such as slower performance and reduced privacy—hampered its widespread adoption.
Looking Ahead: The Evolving Cybersecurity Threat Landscape
According to Check Point security analysts, cyber threats in the coming year will become even more sophisticated. Deepfake technology is expected to dominate social engineering attacks, while quantum computing could disrupt existing encryption standards. Organizations must adopt proactive defense strategies, enhance management practices, and invest in AI-driven technologies to keep pace with the rapidly evolving digital threat landscape.
“Cybersecurity threats are only becoming more advanced. Organizations must stay ahead by strengthening defenses and embracing AI-based solutions to safeguard against these increasingly complex risks,” emphasizes Wojciech Głażewski, Director of Check Point Software Technologies in Poland.
Source: Manager Plus
