Kaspersky has released its annual Security Bulletin, providing an in-depth analysis of significant supply chain attacks and IT outages from 2024 while exploring potential risk scenarios for 2025. The report aims to help businesses enhance their cybersecurity posture, strengthen resilience, and prepare for emerging threats.
2024’s Lessons: IT Outages and Supply Chain Attacks
The past year underscored the vulnerability of global infrastructure to cyber risks. Incidents such as a flawed CrowdStrike update impacting millions of systems, the XZ backdoor, and the Polyfill.io supply chain attack highlighted the precariousness of widely used tools. These breaches emphasized the importance of stringent security protocols, efficient patch management, and proactive defenses in mitigating risks.
Key 2025 Scenarios Explored
1. Major AI Provider Disruptions
The growing reliance on artificial intelligence models from companies like OpenAI, Meta, and Anthropic raises concerns about single points of failure. A data breach or outage at a major provider could lead to widespread disruptions, affecting dependent services globally.
The potential for significant data leaks, given the sensitive information AI systems often handle, adds another layer of risk.
2. Exploitation of On-Device AI Tools
AI’s integration into everyday devices introduces new vulnerabilities. The 2023 Operation Triangulation campaign, exposed by Kaspersky, demonstrated how attackers could exploit system flaws to deploy advanced spyware.
Similar vulnerabilities in neural processing units or specific platforms like Apple Intelligence could amplify cyberattacks. Kaspersky’s research highlighted how on-device machine learning is already being weaponized for data extraction by advanced threat actors.
3. Threats to Satellite Connectivity
Satellite Internet providers, critical to global connectivity, face increasing cyber risks. Airlines, maritime services, and emergency communications often rely on satellite connectivity.
A targeted cyberattack or flawed update could lead to widespread outages, crippling communication channels for individuals and organizations alike.
4. Physical Threats to Internet Infrastructure
The physical backbone of the Internet, including subsea cables and Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), remains susceptible to disruption. These components handle 95% of global data transmission.
Damage to a few critical cables or IXPs could overload remaining infrastructure, causing significant outages and impairing global connectivity.
5. Exploited Vulnerabilities in Core Operating Systems
Operating systems like Windows and Linux form the foundation of critical global assets, from servers to IoT devices. A kernel vulnerability exploited at scale could expose vast networks to attacks, threatening the stability of global supply chains.
Expert Insights on Building Resilience
Igor Kuznetsov, Director of the Global Research and Analysis Team (GReAT) at Kaspersky, emphasized the importance of preparedness:
“Supply chain risks may seem overwhelming, but awareness is the first step toward prevention. By testing updates rigorously, leveraging AI-driven anomaly detection, and diversifying providers, we can reduce vulnerabilities and build resilience. Human vigilance remains the cornerstone of security. Together, these measures can safeguard supply chains and ensure a more secure future.”
A Call to Action for Businesses
The report concludes with a call for organizations to adopt proactive strategies, including:
- Rigorous update testing to prevent unintended vulnerabilities.
- AI-driven monitoring for early detection of anomalies.
- Diversifying providers to mitigate single points of failure.
- Strengthening employee awareness to foster a culture of cybersecurity responsibility.
A Look Ahead
As cyber threats evolve, businesses face a complex landscape requiring robust security measures. Kaspersky’s insights serve as a guide for navigating these challenges, emphasizing the need for resilience and adaptability in an increasingly interconnected world.
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