How do you tackle AI-driven malware and other modern cyber threats?

Did you know that 270 000 new malware codes are created every day? It’s no surprise, then, that South African businesses report an average of 110 cyber security incidents every single month. However, these stats highlight the minute percentage of attacks that are actually reported in the age of AI-driven malware.

South African enterprises can no longer rely on traditional security measures alone to protect their valuable data and ensure business continuity. They require a comprehensive strategy that addresses the evolving threat landscape. One of the most concerning developments in recent years is the emergence of AI-driven ransomware and its potentially devastating impact on businesses.

As a leading cyber security provider, SEACOM understands the need for a proactive, multilayered approach to security to effectively combat modern cyber threats. Our services include intelligent and automated systems that ensure your company is effectively protected against various threats, including malware, DDoS and email phishing attacks.

What is AI-driven malware?

AI-driven malware represents a highly sophisticated form of cyber attack that leverages the power of artificial intelligence with malicious intent. These attacks utilise machine learning algorithms to identify vulnerabilities, evade traditional security measures and exploit weaknesses in a company's infrastructure. They have the ability to adapt, learn and strike with precision, making them particularly dangerous.

AI-driven cyber attacks take place through various means. Cyber criminals may use AI algorithms to scan networks, identify potential targets and launch their attacks. They can mimic human behaviour to deceive security systems and infiltrate networks undetected. Once inside an IT system, AI-driven ransomware can rapidly encrypt critical data, holding it hostage until a ransom is paid.

Hackers and cyber criminals are not fussy about who they target. From small companies to massive enterprises, malware is used to target data and personal information for financial gain. In addition, the current lifespan of new malware is about 1.7 days because AI can be used to evolve the code and change the malware rapidly, making it harder to identify and counteract.

How AI Can be used to combat malware

While AI poses a significant threat, it can also be harnessed as a powerful tool to enhance cyber security. By using AI algorithms and machine learning, cyber security professionals can automate processes such as threat detection, incident response and vulnerability assessments. This automation improves the efficiency and reliability of cyber security operations, enabling quicker identification of threats and more effective mitigation.

Automation is a necessary component of cyber protection today as it allows for real-time monitoring of network traffic, identification of anomalies and immediate response to potential threats. By leveraging AI-driven technologies, businesses can strengthen their cyber security posture, detect and respond to threats faster, and reduce the risk of data breaches or ransomware attacks.

AI should be used as a preventative measure, rather than a cure. By adopting industry best practices for cyber security and educating employees about various risks and threats, companies can put in place robust protocols and processes in combination with intelligent security systems.

AI and humans go hand-in-hand when it comes to cyber security. When AI is deployed for cyber security, attack detection is up to 39% faster. However, employees need to undergo user awareness training and IT Teams need to oversee the automated security systems to monitor for any errors or inconsistencies.

SEACOM offers cyber security to enterprises

SEACOM is a leader in ICT technology in South Africa. We offer comprehensive cyber security services tailored to businesses across various industries. These provide advanced threat detection and prevention solutions, as well as network monitoring and incident response services.

SEACOM's team of certified cyber security professionals stays updated on the latest threats and trends in the cyber landscape, ensuring that businesses are well-equipped to tackle evolving cyber risks. Modern cyber threats, including AI-driven malware, require a proactive and multilayered approach to security. Businesses in South Africa must implement robust cyber security measures to protect their critical data and maintain business continuity.

By partnering with SEACOM, enterprises can enhance their cyber resilience and safeguard their digital assets in today's rapidly evolving threat landscape. For more information about our cyber security services or to get a quote, email us at marketing@seacom.com or leave us a message.

SEACOM owns Africa’s most extensive network of information and communications technology (ICT) infrastructure, including subsea cables and secure internet connections. We offer a diverse range of flexible, scalable and high-quality solutions for businesses that meet world-class standards for connectivity.

SEACOM is privately owned and operated, making it agile and adaptable to the needs of the customer. This makes us the preferred ICT and internet connectivity partner for African businesses and peripheral service providers. We can guarantee high-speed, low-latency and secure internet connections to corporates and small enterprises.

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