Microsoft has revealed that more than 600 million online attacks take place every day. Attacks range from ransomware attacks that demand money to unlock data to identity attacks. Cybercriminals as well as various government agencies are becoming increasingly adept at using artificial intelligence in their attacks.
The Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2024 also found that there is growing evidence of cybercriminal gangs collaborating with government groups and sharing tools and techniques.
The Redmond-based company said various government groups are conducting operations for financial gain, to recruit cybercriminals and to gather intelligence (particularly on the Ukrainian military) and use infostealers and command and control frameworks.
Microsoft said Russia, Iran and China are using ongoing geopolitical issues to increase discord on sensitive issues and undermine confidence in elections. Of these, Russia and Iran were the most active.
The most affected countries, apart from the US and the UK, are countries with active military conflicts or regional tensions. These include Israel, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates and Taiwan.
To combat these threats, Microsoft says it will take vigilance and commitment from both the public and private sectors so that attackers no longer have the upper hand.
If you want to read the entire report, you can find it here.