Industry executives and experts share their predictions for 2025. Read them in this 17th annual VMblog.com series exclusive.
By
Satyajith Mundakkal, CTO of Hexaware
The security challenges of 2025 are becoming
clear as new technologies reshape how businesses operate. Generative AI
(GenAI), quantum computing, and advanced cyber threats present fresh risks and
necessitate new strategies for better defense. Organizations must act now to
prepare for these changes. Here are four key trends shaping security in the B2B
space.
1. GenAI and new risks for data protection: These tools have become indispensable for many businesses,
centralizing large amounts of data from various systems into a single,
user-friendly interface. However, this convenience comes at a cost. If
this single interface is breached, it could expose an entire
organization’s sensitive data. Cybercriminals can leverage these
interfaces to refine their attack methods, asking business-specific
questions like, “What are the largest transactions?” or “Who are the top
customers?” to extract high-value information in mere seconds, potentially
causing devastating consequences for a business.
User mistakes when
employing AI exacerbate these risks. Human error remains a significant
challenge in maintaining security, especially with the widespread use of GenAI
tools. Employees sometimes share sensitive information with AI platforms,
inadvertently exposing organizations to unnecessary risks. To counter these,
companies need good governance, continuous education, and stricter access
controls for AI tools. It’s vital to label and classify data so that access is
limited and unrestricted access to sensitive information is eliminated.
Businesses must also enforce clear security protocols to protect data from
being exploited through third-party and partners’ AI-driven ecosystems.
2. AI-powered security and faster threat response: AI has also remodeled how many businesses respond to cyber
threats. Security tools now automate processes like threat detection,
analysis, and mitigation, significantly reducing response times. Speed is
critical in security, as faster action limits the potential extent of
compromise, minimizing damage and preventing escalation. This is
especially true as cybercriminals are starting to use AI themselves to
amplify and accelerate threats.
Specialized AI tools will
play a larger role in security strategies, taking on focused tasks such as
identifying specific threats or isolating compromised systems. By automating
these tasks, businesses can respond more efficiently and free up human talent
for higher-level decision-making.
3. Quantum computing and new encryption challenges: Quantum computing is advancing faster than many anticipated, and
its arrival in the coming years will challenge traditional encryption
methods. Threat actors are already storing encrypted data in anticipation
of quantum decryption capabilities. Once these capabilities mature,
previously secure data could be exposed.
Organizations should take
action now to adopt quantum-resistant encryption. Starting with high-priority
systems, businesses can phase in these protections over time. Taking proactive
steps today ensures sensitive information remains secure in the future, even as
quantum technologies evolve.
4. Voice cloning and threats to authentication: Voice cloning technology has become a powerful tool for
cybercriminals. Many businesses still rely on voice-based authentication
methods, such as phone approvals or password resets. With enough publicly
available audio, attackers can create convincing voice replicas, potentially
bypassing these systems.
Businesses need to
rethink their reliance on voice authentication. Alternatives like biometric or
hardware-based authentication offer better security. Additionally, employees
must be trained to recognize potential voice-based threats, and stricter identity
verification processes should be implemented to reduce the risk of
exploitation.
Security in the coming year will demand both
preparation and adaptability. GenAI and quantum computing are introducing new
risks that require immediate action, while tools like AI-driven security
systems are creating opportunities to strengthen defenses. Businesses that
proactively adopt steps such as quantum-proof encryption, improved
authentication methods, and training employees continuously will be better
positioned to manage the challenges ahead. The key is to stay ahead of
potential threats while leveraging the tools available to secure critical
systems and data.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Satyajith Mundakkal, Chief Technology Officer, Hexaware has over 20 years of experience,
where he has built a reputation for driving transformative IT strategies,
enabling innovation, and delivering measurable business value. His leadership
at Hexaware has shaped digital transformations and optimized operations to
enhance customer satisfaction.
