Verizon Business has recently unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 Mobile Security Index (MSI) report, shedding light on the key threats to mobile and IoT device security in the modern landscape. This latest edition of the report, now in its seventh iteration, delves deeper into the utilization of IoT devices and sensors, highlighting the security concerns that accompany the proliferation of these devices. With remote work becoming increasingly prevalent, the report aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the evolving threat landscape that organizations, especially CIOs and IT decision-makers, must confront in order to safeguard their digital infrastructure.
As businesses continue to rely more heavily on mobile devices, the attendant risks also escalate, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors where the repercussions of security breaches can be catastrophic. The 2024 MSI, based on a survey of 600 individuals responsible for security strategy and management, underscores the crucial importance of addressing these vulnerabilities.
According to the survey findings, a staggering 80% of respondents regard mobile devices as indispensable to their operations, while 95% actively utilize IoT devices. However, this growing dependence on such devices also brings about significant security apprehensions. In critical infrastructure sectors, where 96% of respondents are incorporating IoT devices, more than half have reported experiencing severe security incidents resulting in data loss or system downtime.
Phil Hochmuth, Research VP for enterprise mobility at IDC, emphasized the ongoing challenges faced by employers as work increasingly shifts to personal mobile devices. Hochmuth highlighted the transition from a purely “bring-your-own-device” model to one where employers provide devices to enhance governance and protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats. He also emphasized the importance of robust frameworks like Zero Trust and NIST CSF 2.0, alongside compliance with mandates such as the European Union’s NIS2 Directive.
Furthermore, Hochmuth stressed the necessity for organizations to embrace advanced cybersecurity strategies and mechanisms, including AI and other cutting-edge technologies, to counter emerging threats in the digital realm. The report indicates that 77% of respondents anticipate AI-assisted cyberattacks to become more prevalent, with 88% acknowledging the importance of AI-driven cybersecurity solutions in critical infrastructure sectors.
As companies across industries increasingly deploy IoT devices, their digital landscapes are rapidly evolving, necessitating corresponding developments in cybersecurity strategies. TJ Fox, SVP of Industrial IoT and Automotive at Verizon Business, highlighted the advent of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and the corresponding expansion of mobile device technology beyond traditional devices like phones and laptops. The need for enhanced knowledge, awareness, and IT solutions to safeguard these sophisticated networks has never been more critical.
The 2024 MSI serves as a valuable resource to inform cybersecurity decisions for leaders in various industries, underscoring the escalating threats posed by mobile and IoT vulnerabilities. In response to these growing risks, a significant majority of respondents have ramped up their investments in mobile device security, with a notable proportion planning further increases in the near future.
Verizon’s partners, including Ivanti, Lookout, and Jamf, have contributed to this year’s report, offering insights and best practices to help organizations bolster their cybersecurity defenses against evolving threats. By implementing comprehensive security measures, prioritizing employee education, and deploying advanced threat detection capabilities, businesses can effectively mitigate cyber risks and fortify their digital resilience in the face of modern challenges. Organizations looking to enhance their cybersecurity posture are encouraged to explore the Verizon Business 2024 Mobile Security Index for actionable recommendations and proven strategies to safeguard their digital assets.