We have grown accustomed to the groups and organizations that protect us from threats. We subconsciously feel safer knowing they're present, from the local fire department to the US military. Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) has filled that void in the ever-changing digital world, acting as the digital CIA. CTI has become essential for combating cyber threats. CTI involves collecting, analyzing, and broadcasting information about current and potential threats to help organizations anticipate and alleviate risks.
Key Elements of Cyber Threat Intelligence
Threat Actors and Motivations
The most active groups include cybercriminal syndicates, nation-states conducting advanced persistent threats (APTs), and hacktivists. Cybercriminals are primarily financially motivated, while nation-states target strategic assets for geopolitical purposes.
Common Threat Vectors
Ransomware
Groups like BlackCat increasingly use ransomware as a service, offering tools to affiliates for conducting attacks. Double extortion tactics—stealing data before encryption—are becoming the norm.
Stolen Credentials
Infostealer malware is on the rise, enabling cybercriminals to exploit stolen login data for various attacks, from espionage to financial fraud.
A.I. in Cybersecurity
Artificial Intelligence is a double-edged sword in CTI. While it enhances detection and response by prioritizing threats, hackers use AI to create sophisticated phishing scams and deepfake content.
Critical Timing
Threat actors exploit events like elections, major business transactions, or holidays to maximize disruption. For example, businesses supporting Ukraine have faced targeted cyberattacks during high-stakes political developments.
How Organizations Can Defend Themselves
Collaboration and Information Sharing
Joining cyber alliances helps organizations stay informed about the latest threats and best practices.
Staying Informed
Leveraging threat intelligence platforms to monitor and analyze evolving risks allows companies to address vulnerabilities heedfully.
The cybersecurity landscape in 2025 demands threat intelligence to counter increasingly advanced threats. Integrating AI with CTI, prioritizing software updates, and fostering collaboration are vital steps for organizations to stay ahead of attackers.
References
“Cyber Threat Intelligence Report 2024: Key Cybersecurity Threats Unveiled by.” Critical Start, 22 August 2024, https://www.criticalstart.com/resources/cyber-threat-intelligence-report-2024/. Accessed 19 November 2024.
Moffitt, Tyler. “What you need to know: The biggest cyber threats in 2024.” Webroot, 27 September 2024, https://www.webroot.com/blog/2024/09/27/what-you-need-to-know-the-biggest-cyber-threats-in-2024/. Accessed 19 November 2024.
“10 Essential Strategies to Protect Your Business from Cyber Threats.” SOCRadar, https://socradar.io/10-strategies-to-protect-your-business-cyber-threats/.
“2024 Threat Intelligence Report.” Cognyte, 31 March 2024, https://www.cognyte.com/blog/threat-intelligence-report-2024/. Accessed 19 November 2024.
About Solis
Solis delivers best-in-class managed cyber security services and cyber incident response. Combining state-of-the-art technology with unparalleled cyber threat intelligence, our award-winning team of cybersecurity experts has more than 21 years of experience protecting SMBs and SMEs from potentially devastating cyber-attacks.
With offices in the United States, United Kingdom and Australia, Solis handles thousands of cyber events each year and is trusted by customers in 90+ countries around the world. Learn more at www.solissecurity.com
