Cybercrime has reached unprecedented proportions in 2024, becoming a major global threat. According to recent reports, this scourge now represents the third largest economy in the world, behind the United States and China. Losses linked to these criminal activities are estimated at $10.4 billion this year, jeopardizing the digital security of businesses, public institutions and citizens.
A growing global scourge
Every second, thousands of cyberattacks hit individual users, SMEs and large multinationals. The techniques used, ranging from ransomware to industrial espionage, demonstrate increasing sophistication. In Spain, 25% of crimes reported in 2024 were internet-related, with 80% of them involving fraud. This observation reflects a global reality: one in five crimes is now committed online.
Record ransoms and strategic targets
2024 saw the payment of a historic $75 million ransom, although the identity of the affected company remains unknown. Ransomware continues to target critical industries like energy, healthcare and technology. European companies such as Repsol and Iberdrola have been the target of major cyberattacks, compromising their sensitive data and disrupting their operations.
AI: an accelerator for cybercriminals
Artificial intelligence plays a central role in the rise of cybercrime. By perfecting their tools, hackers are making their attacks more targeted and difficult to detect. In 2024, practices like wishes (voice spoofing) have multiplied, making it possible to infiltrate corporate environments by imitating familiar speakers.
Increasingly sophisticated attacks
Cybercriminals exploit unpatched vulnerabilities, such as security breaches zero-day, and rely on password theft or elaborate phishing techniques. These methods often target poorly trained employees, the real Achilles heel of large organizations.
Investments in cybersecurity still insufficient
Despite the scale of the problem, efforts to strengthen cybersecurity remain uneven. In Spain, 90% of spending in this area comes from large companies, leaving SMEs particularly vulnerable. However, the latter represent a significant part of the victims of attacks.
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Priority to prevention
Experts emphasize the importance of proactive prevention in the face of these threats. Regularly updating systems, strengthening password complexity and training employees in digital best practices are among the essential measures. Angela Garcia, spokesperson for INCIBE, recalls that critical thinking can play a crucial role: “If we took the time to verify the information we receive, many frauds could be avoided. »
An uncertain future and growing challenges
This year (2025), experts anticipate an intensification of targeted attacks, powered by even more sophisticated AI. Critical sectors, like healthcare and energy, are expected to remain at the forefront, while techniques like phishing and vishing will become more precise.