As we head to the end of Cybersecurity Awareness Month, the time has come to reflect and consider: just what might the future of cybersecurity look like, and what threats  do we see developings on the horizon 2025? 

Cybersecurity is constantly changing, growing and evolving, and the idea of being able to predict the future is a superpower we all wish we could possess. The good news is that you don’t need a crystal ball to gain insight into the future of cybersecurity – all you need is a good knowledge of the industry, and the ability to look more closely at key ideas and concepts.

Quantum AI Developments

2025 is due to be recognised as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology by the United Nations, and quantum AI stands poised to redefine our relationship with artificial intelligence. Quantum computing’s ability to process vast datasets at unprecedented speeds presents a range of exciting opportunities for developing more sophisticated AI systems that work in symbiotic tandem with humans.

This collaboration could empower humans with AI-driven insights across sectors from healthcare to environmental science – but it does not come without its risks.  The power of quantum AI brings with it heightened cybersecurity challenges, as traditional encryption methods become vulnerable to quantum-level decryption capabilities. Protecting sensitive data, therefore, remains an ever-critical concern, urging the development of quantum-safe cybersecurity measures to ensure a balanced, secure, and productive human-AI relationship.

Cybersecurity As A Global Concern

As we have seen from recent attacks on companies such as Game Freak, Disney,  and Ticketmaster, cybersecurity threats are escalating, and 2025 looks set to see this continue on a global scale, with hackers increasingly targeting critical infrastructure such as elections, healthcare systems, and energy grids. 

Such attacks have the potential to disrupt essential services, threaten public safety, and undermine national stability. This growing threat has prompted calls for coordinated international efforts to strengthen cybersecurity defences, recognising the need for robust strategies that cross borders and sectors. For this reason, 2025 is set to be the year we begin to view cybersecurity not merely as a technical concern for businesses but as an essential pillar of both national and global security.

Zero Trust Security Models

Based on the principle of “never trust, always verify,” the zero trust security model is set to dominate cybersecurity strategies for UK businesses in 2025. In a landscape increasingly shaped by hybrid work and distributed networks, zero trust frameworks will offer businesses a proactive defence strategy, ensuring that every user, device, and connection—whether internal or external—is continuously authenticated and authorised. 

By applying granular access controls across all endpoints, zero trust can help companies protect sensitive data, mitigate insider threats, and reduce their attack surface. For businesses seeking robust cybersecurity options, adopting a zero trust approach will mean shifting from traditional perimeter-based security models to a more flexible, vigilant structure.

This will not only safeguard against unauthorised access but also provide a scalable solution that aligns with the digital transformation and flexible working practices now defining the UK workplace.

The Future of IoT Security

As IoT technology progresses, so will the challenges of securing it. Innovations such as 5G, edge computing, and quantum technology will bring new capabilities but also heightened security risks that require careful mitigation. 

With IT and OT convergence in industrial and manufacturing environments, companies will need to adopt integrated, layered security approaches that account for operational complexities, while consumer-facing devices must strike a delicate balance between user convenience and robust security features.

In 2025 and beyond, businesses seeking to secure IoT devices will need to adopt a proactive, comprehensive strategy that not only keeps pace with evolving security technologies but also fosters a culture of security awareness. This will involve ongoing training and vigilance across all departments within a business. Businesses, organisations and individuals need to shift their mindset, recognising that as IoT becomes deeply embedded in our day-to-day lives and critical national infrastructure, the stakes for ensuring its security—and avoiding costly breaches—have never been higher.

Ransomware As A Service (RaaS)

Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) is rapidly becoming a serious threat for UK businesses, turning ransomware attacks into a lucrative industry that can be accessed by even novice hackers. 

RaaS platforms provide cybercriminals with ready-made tools and infrastructure, lowering the barrier to entry and enabling coordinated attacks on a scale not seen before. This means businesses of all sizes are at increased risk, as attackers can now launch highly targeted ransomware attacks without needing advanced technical skills. 

For UK organisations, this trend underscores the importance of implementing robust security measures, such as regular backups, access controls, and employee training, to mitigate the risk of falling victim to RaaS. With the rising sophistication and availability of these malicious services, ransomware prevention must become an integral part of a business’s cybersecurity strategy to safeguard its assets, reputation, and operations.

A Rise In Cybersecurity Fraud

Cybersecurity fraud is far from a new concept, but it looks set to become a potential major threat for UK businesses in 2025, with the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau revealing that four out of five fraud cases now involve cyber tactics.

This means that businesses are facing growing risks from scams like phishing, business email compromise, and payment diversion fraud. In many cases, attackers impersonate senior staff or trusted suppliers to trick employees into redirecting payments or sharing sensitive information. These schemes often target people rather than systems, so traditional security defences may not be enough. 

To protect themselves, businesses need to focus on security awareness training, strong payment verification processes, and early detection strategies. With cyber fraud on the rise, staying vigilant and proactive is essential to protect both finances and reputation.

Final Thoughts

As we look ahead to 2025, the landscape of cybersecurity will undoubtedly become more complex and demanding. The data speaks volumes: the global average cost of a data breach has soared to an all-time high of $4.88 million, marking a staggering 10% increase since 2023. This alarming trend highlights the urgent need for businesses to remain vigilant and adaptable in the face of evolving threats. 

By embracing the key cybersecurity developments we’ve explored—from quantum AI and zero trust frameworks to the challenges of securing IoT devices and the rise of ransomware-as-a-Service—organisations can better prepare themselves to navigate this perilous terrain. A proactive approach to cybersecurity is no longer optional; it is essential for safeguarding sensitive data, protecting vital systems, and ensuring business continuity. By fostering a culture of security awareness and implementing robust strategies, businesses can not only mitigate risks but also thrive in an increasingly interconnected and digital world. As we move into this new era, the responsibility to protect against cyber threats lies with all of us, demanding a concerted effort across industries to secure our collective future.

As we move into this new era, the responsibility to protect against cyber threats lies with all of us, demanding a concerted effort across industries to secure our collective future. For tailored cybersecurity solutions and expert training, partner with Bob’s Business and empower your organisation to stay ahead of evolving threats.

Earlier this month, we discussed the significant role cybersecurity plays in the world of sports, particularly its effect on football clubs, fans, athletes, and employees. 

Building on that discussion, our CEO, Neil Frost, was invited to speak with Giulia Bould on BBC Radio Merseyside, shedding light on how cyber threats can impact all aspects of football clubs—from financial losses and reputational damage and even to day-to-day operations. 

Given the expansive global digital presence of football clubs, safeguarding digital presence and information is more critical than ever. Things like player contracts, medical records, and fans personal data are all key areas within football – and in the wrong hands, these can cause significant harm. Breaches can even lead to disruption of games and could bring the integrity of the game into disrepute.

At the weekend Ipswich Vs Everton was delayed 15 minutes due to an issue affecting the internet and meant fans were not able to get into the turnstile properly, although it is believed this wasn’t due to a cyber attack or breach, it demonstrates the importance of protecting your digital security.

By reinforcing digital security, clubs can better navigate the complexities of modern football and minimise risks.

Listen to Neil’s full BBC piece

Phishing is one of the most common types of cybercrime, with around 3.4 billion phishing emails being sent every day. For many businesses, being targeted by this type of cybercrime is merely a matter of when, rather than if, and if the thieves are successful, the consequences can be devastating for your business.

In the early days, phishing attacks were relatively simple. Attackers would send out generic emails with malicious links or attachments, trying to fool unsuspecting users into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or credit card numbers. These early phishing attempts were often easy to spot due to poor grammar, unusual email addresses, and suspicious content.

However, as technology and security awareness has improved, so too have the sophistication and variety of phishing attacks. Modern phishing campaigns are often highly targeted, making them harder to detect and more dangerous to both individuals and businesses. Let’s take a look at some of the key developments in phishing over the past few years.

Spear Phishing

Spear phishing is one of the most dangerous forms of phishing because it targets specific individuals or organisations. Unlike traditional phishing, which casts a wide net, spear phishing involves attackers researching their targets to create personalised emails that appear more legitimate.

For example, a hacker might pose as a trusted colleague, supplier, or even an executive within the company. The email might reference internal projects or recent communications to make it appear genuine, tricking the recipient into clicking a link or downloading an attachment that compromises the organisation’s security. These highly tailored attacks are often used to steal sensitive data or initiate fraudulent transactions.

Smishing and Vishing: Phishing via Phone and Text

As businesses and individuals become more adept at spotting phishing emails, attackers have diversified their tactics, branching into smishing (SMS phishing) and vishing (voice phishing). These methods leverage the trust people tend to place in mobile communications.

• Smishing involves sending malicious links or fake alerts via text messages. These might appear to come from a bank, delivery service, or even a government agency, urging the recipient to take immediate action, such as confirming account details or tracking a package. Given that many people have their phones with them at all times, smishing can be highly effective.
• Vishing, on the other hand, uses phone calls. Attackers often pretend to be tech support, government officials, or financial institutions, convincing victims to hand over sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers, over the phone.

Both of these methods exploit the urgency and personal nature of phone communication, making them difficult for untrained employees to recognise as fraudulent.

Checkout our ‘Phishing Fears‘ course to learn more.

Business Email Compromise (BEC)

One of the most financially damaging forms of phishing is Business Email Compromise (BEC). In BEC attacks, criminals impersonate senior executives or trusted partners, sending urgent emails requesting payments, fund transfers, or confidential information. These attacks have become increasingly common, with companies of all sizes falling victim.

A typical BEC scam might involve a fraudulent email appearing to be from the CEO, asking the finance department to quickly wire money to a specific account for a business deal. The scam succeeds because it often leverages the trust within a company and exploits the speed at which businesses operate.

Clone Phishing

Another increasingly popular phishing tactic is clone phishing, where attackers create an almost identical copy of a legitimate email that the victim has previously received. The cloned email might appear to be from a trusted source, such as a colleague or vendor, and typically contains a modified version of the original attachment or link. By subtly changing the content, the attacker tricks the victim into clicking a malicious link that looks legitimate.

Clone phishing is particularly dangerous because the victim may have interacted with the original email, making them less suspicious of the clone.

How to Protect Your Business from Phishing

With phishing attacks evolving and becoming more sophisticated, it’s crucial for businesses to take proactive steps to protect themselves. Here are some key measures:

• Cybersecurity Training for Employees

Phishing attacks often rely on human error. Training employees to recognise phishing attempts, whether by email, phone, or text, is one of the most effective defences. Cybersecurity awareness programmes, such as those offered by Bob’s Business, can equip staff with the knowledge they need to spot and report suspicious activity before it becomes a problem. Simulated phishing training helps your staff identify phishing emails and know how to deal with phishing threats when they come in, with courses that can be tailored to your company’s specific weaknesses and needs.

• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

Enabling MFA adds an extra layer of security to your business accounts. Even if a hacker obtains a username and password, they won’t be able to access the account without the second form of verification.

• Regular Software Updates

Ensure that your systems and software are always up to date. Patches and updates often contain fixes for security vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit.

• Email Filtering and Anti-Phishing Tools

Implement robust email filtering solutions to help prevent phishing emails from reaching your inbox in the first place. Many of these systems use machine learning to identify suspicious content based on known phishing techniques.

• Simulated Phishing Attacks

Simulating phishing attacks within your organisation can help employees learn to spot phishing attempts in a low-risk environment. By exposing them to real-world scenarios, you can measure their responses and identify areas for improvement in your security protocols.

• Secure Communication Protocols

Encourage employees to verify requests for sensitive information or payments, especially if the request seems urgent or unusual. A quick phone call or in-person conversation can prevent a costly mistake.

The Future of Phishing and Cybersecurity

As technology evolves, phishing techniques will also continue to evolve. Businesses need to stay ahead of the curve by investing in comprehensive cybersecurity solutions and ensuring their teams are well-trained to spot and respond to phishing threats. Cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to exploit vulnerabilities, but with the right training and tools, businesses can stay protected.

At Bob’s Business, we offer cutting-edge cybersecurity training designed to keep your employees one step ahead of the hackers. Don’t wait for your business to become a statistic—contact us today to find out how we can help safeguard your organisation from phishing attacks.

In an age where technology drives nearly every aspect of our lives, the world of sports is no exception. Football clubs and sports organisations are increasingly reliant on digital platforms for everything from ticket sales to player analytics. While this digital transformation offers many advantages, it also exposes the industry to significant cybersecurity risks.

Last week, the English Football League (EFL) warned football clubs following a series of cyberattacks. Since then, both Bristol City and Sheffield Wednesday have suffered breaches in recent weeks and more clubs are now looking to tighten their defences. 

Football and sports as a whole represents a massive industry, with the global sector projected to generate over $700 billion by 2026. This staggering figure highlights the critical importance for football clubs, sports teams, and associations to protect their data effectively. Safeguarding sensitive information is not just a necessity—it’s vital for the sustainability and the success of the industry.

Protecting Sensitive Data in Football

Football clubs handle massive amounts of sensitive data, including player contracts, health records, and fan information. A data breach can lead to severe financial losses, legal issues, and reputational damage. Cybercriminals are constantly searching for vulnerabilities in sports organisations. By implementing strong cybersecurity protocols, clubs can protect their sensitive data and maintain trust with players and fans alike.

Ensuring Fair Play in Sports

Integrity is crucial in competitive sports. Cyberattacks can threaten the fairness of games by manipulating performance analytics or altering betting odds. Ensuring robust cybersecurity protects not only the teams but also the spirit of the game. By investing in cybersecurity, sports organisations can maintain the integrity of competitions, which is essential for preserving the sport’s reputation.

Enhancing Fan Experience Through Secure Platforms

As fan engagement grows through apps and online platforms, ensuring a secure digital environment is paramount. Cyber breaches can compromise fan accounts, leading to identity theft and personal information loss. By prioritising cybersecurity, sports organisations can create a safe space for fans to connect and engage, ultimately enhancing their overall experience.

Staying Ahead of Evolving Cyber Threats

Cyber threats are continuously evolving, making vigilance essential for sports organisations. Regular staff training, updated security protocols, and investment in advanced technologies are crucial steps in mitigating risks. Fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness empowers employees to recognise and respond to potential threats, further safeguarding the organisation.

Football, Sports and Cybersecurity incidents: 

• In 2019, hackers stole Simona Halep’s Instagram account to ask fans for money
• In 2020, One of the world’s biggest football clubs, Manchester United were subject to a cyberattack
• In 2020, the email address of a Premier League Managing Director had been hacked 
• In 2022, Football fans were urged to be wary of ticket scams 
• 2024, Mbappe X account hacked, weeks later EFL clubs compromised 

We’re seeing some clear trends when it comes to fraud and the serious financial and operational impacts that cyberattacks have on sports organisations. It’s becoming increasingly clear that data protection is vital in this industry. Mishandling personal and sensitive information can lead to hefty legal fees and regulatory fines, which is a huge concern.

There’s also a strong need for good security practices at both the player and individual levels, especially when it comes to keeping online social media accounts safe. High-profile athletes, who often have a big digital footprint, really need extra protections to stay secure.

And let’s not forget about the fans! Sports organisations have a big responsibility to protect them. This means ensuring secure online payment systems for tickets and merchandise, as well as addressing safety and privacy with tech like smart turnstiles and CCTV at venues. It’s all about building trust and creating a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The Future of Cybersecurity in Football and Sports

As football and sports embrace digital innovations, prioritising cybersecurity is not just a necessity—it’s a commitment to the future of the sport. Protecting sensitive data, ensuring fair play, enhancing fan experiences, and staying ahead of evolving threats are critical for organisations looking to thrive in today’s digital landscape. By investing in cybersecurity, sports teams can safeguard their legacy and maintain the trust of fans, players and stakeholders.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month is fast approaching, bringing with it a series of essential educational events, growth opportunities, and industry gatherings. In today’s hyperconnected world cybersecurity has become critical to maintaining the safety and integrity of our data. 

Despite this, an alarming number of individuals and businesses remain unaware of basic cybersecurity practices, leaving them vulnerable to cyberattacks. 

Download our FREE Cybersecurity Awareness Month pack here .

The True Cost of Cyber Threats to Business

Cybercrime is one of the most expensive challenges businesses face today, with the cost of global damages projected to reach $6.4 trillion between 2024 and 2029, an increase of 69.41%.

High-profile cyberattacks on companies like Colonial Pipeline in the U.S. and British Airways in the UK underscore the massive financial risks. More recently, Ticketmaster experienced a significant data breach in July 2024, where the personal details of 560 million customers were leaked after hackers gained access by stealing login details from Snowflake, Ticketmaster’s cloud storage provider. Similarly, American Express fell victim to a cyberattack in March 2024, showcasing the widespread vulnerability of even the most well-established companies.

In the UK, the costs of cyberattacks are rising sharply. The UK Government’s Cyber Security Breaches Survey 2023 reported that 32% of UK businesses were targeted by cyberattacks in the previous 12 months. This number rose to 59% for medium sized businesses, and an eye watering 69% for large businesses. The cost for large corporations can easily escalate into millions, as seen in the £20 million fine imposed on British Airways in 2020 following their data breach.

The Rise in Cyber Threats

As technology evolves, naturally so do the threats. The number of cyberattacks has skyrocketed in recent years. In the UK alone, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) handled almost 300 cyber incidents between 2022 and 2023, 28 of which were considered “NCSC-managed incidents”, and 18 of which were categorised as C3 and above.  Globally, there were around 623.3 million ransomware attacks across 2021, with ransomware accounting for around a fifth of cyber crimes in 2022.

Sectors like healthcare and finance have been particularly affected, with a recent attack said to have cost the NHS 4913 in acute outpatient appointments, with 1391 operations postponed. According to the stats, the average cost of a data breach anywhere in the healthcare industry can reach $9.77 million, causing serious long-term financial repercussions.

The Importance of Promoting Best Practices

Many of the most damaging cyber incidents stem from avoidable human errors, such as weak passwords, phishing scams, and failure to apply software updates. According to Verizon’s 2023 Data Breach Investigations Report, 74% of breaches involved a human element. In the UK, phishing remains the most common form of cybercrime, with 79% of UK businesses reporting incidents in the last year.

The Ticketmaster and American Express breaches serve as reminders of the importance of secure password management and strong access controls. Simple measures can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches for individuals and businesses alike, like using strong, unique passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and remaining vigilant against phishing attacks.

Closing the Knowledge Gap

One of the major challenges in cybersecurity is the widespread knowledge gap between IT professionals and the general public. A recent survey released by Proofpoint Inc showed that around a third of CISO (Chief Information Security Officers) feel unprepared to cope with a targeted cyber attack. 

With human error the most significant vulnerability to cybersecurity, understanding and education are more important than ever before. 

The Ticketmaster breach was, in part, a result of insufficient understanding of cloud security protocols, which highlights how critical it is for businesses to understand cybersecurity protocols. Cybersecurity Awareness Month aims to educate and empower people across all levels with accessible, up-to-date cybersecurity knowledge to reduce these vulnerabilities.

Adapting to the Changing Digital Landscape

As businesses increasingly rely on new technologies such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT), they introduce new vulnerabilities. In 2024, the Ticketmaster breach underscored the potential risks of cloud storage if not properly secured. Similarly, the American Express cyberattack demonstrated that even financial institutions with robust defences can be susceptible to emerging threats.

Cybersecurity Awareness Month serves as a reminder of the need to stay informed about these changes. Whether it’s understanding the security risks of IoT devices or learning about new data privacy regulations like GDPR, businesses must adapt to the evolving digital landscape to stay secure.

Empowering Individuals to Act

At its core, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is about empowerment. It provides individuals with the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves in an increasingly digital world. The campaign demystifies cybersecurity, making it more approachable for people from all backgrounds and skill levels. 

In the UK, initiatives led by the NCSC, such as the “Cyber Aware” campaign, complement Cybersecurity Awareness Month by offering practical advice and resources for businesses and the public.

By raising awareness, you can help individuals and businesses take proactive steps to reduce their risk and build a more resilient digital future: when it comes to cybersecurity, knowledge really is power.

Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity Awareness Month provides a platform for raising public and organisational awareness of these growing threats. By promoting a proactive approach, businesses can implement protective measures like incident response plans, stronger firewalls, and employee training programs to mitigate risk.

With cyber threats increasingly targeting both the U.S. and the UK—exemplified by the Ticketmaster and American Express breaches—this October is an opportunity for individuals and businesses alike to commit to learning, sharing, and adopting good cybersecurity habits that will benefit everyone throughout the year.

Don’t forget to download our FREE Cybersecurity Awareness Month pack.

The importance of cybersecurity cannot be overstated; it’s an issue which impacts businesses of all shapes and sizes, and which can have devastating effects in terms of finances and reputation. While cyberattacks on small businesses and individuals often make headlines, some of the biggest organisations in the UK have also fallen victim to these dangerous threats, including two of the UK’s largest public sector organisations—Transport for London (TfL) and the National Health Service (NHS). We discuss what they’ve done to respond, and what this means for the future.

The Growing Threat of Cybersecurity Breaches

Cybersecurity is a critical issue across the globe, and the UK is no exception. With the increasing digitisation of services, organisations are handling more data than ever, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. According to recent reports, cyberattacks have surged across all sectors in the UK, with government institutions and healthcare organisations among the hardest hit.

The types of attacks faced by large organisations are often more sophisticated and damaging. Common threats include ransomware, phishing schemes, and DDoS (Distributed Denial of Service) attacks, all of which can disrupt operations and compromise sensitive data. Public sector organisations like TfL and the NHS are particularly vulnerable due to the essential services they provide and the sensitive information they hold.

Transport for London

Transport for London (TfL) recently made headlines for all the wrong reasons when they found themselves facing a cyberattack, and enlisted the help of the National Crime Agency (NCA) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC). Although TfL initially assured the public that no customer data had been compromised, it later appeared that a small number may have been affected. Services were largely unaffected, however concerns about the breach’s severity remained, resulting in TfL restricting access to its systems, and advising staff to work remotely. 

Cybersecurity experts, such as Adam Pilton from CyberSmart, suggested that continued changes to TfL’s internal systems indicated the attacker might still have had access to the network. Speculation surrounded potential perpetrators, with some pointing to previous attacks by Russian-linked groups, such as the Clop ransomware gang, which had targeted TfL the previous year, stealing personal data from around 13,000 individuals.

The National Crime Agency have since said a 17-year-old boy has been arrested in connection with the incident.

This cyberattack serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of cybersecurity training. TfL’s swift response was commendable, but it highlights the need for organisations to equip their staff with the necessary knowledge and protocols to defend against evolving threats. With cyberattacks becoming increasingly sophisticated, businesses must invest in proactive cybersecurity measures to safeguard both their systems and customer data.

NHS

2024 also saw the NHS hit with yet another cyber attack, this time involving Synovis, a major pathology services provider in partnership with Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and King’s College Hospital. The breach impacted both internal operations and patient services, leading to some activities being cancelled or redirected as Synnovis prioritised urgent care, and the impact was felt across a wide range of London boroughs, with areas such as Bexley, Southwark, and Lambeth all reporting an impact on local GP practices, and general NHS services. 

Although an investigation involving the NHS, the National Cyber Security Centre, and law enforcement is ongoing, the attackers reportedly released data they claimed to have stolen from Synnovis, and the incident highlighted the vulnerability of healthcare infrastructure to cyber threats, stressing the importance of robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive medical data​ for a crucial sector in society. 

The Bottom Line

As these attacks illustrate, cybersecurity is a concern that affects us all. It’s crucial for everyone within an organisation to be vigilant and proactive in maintaining safety and security across every aspect of their business. Regardless of the size of your budget or the sophistication of your security system, these incidents highlight that anyone can fall victim to a cyber attack—and the threat continues to grow.

To stay ahead of these evolving risks, investing in top-notch cybersecurity training is essential.

Bobs Business offers reliable, trustworthy, and engaging cybersecurity training that equips you and your team with the knowledge to think critically before you click and to safeguard your business effectively. Don’t wait for an attack to highlight gaps in your security. 

Contact Bob’s Business today to ensure your organisation remains secure for many years to come.