The Rise of Targeted Cyberattacks: Why 2023 Was a Year of Cybersecurity Concerns

In 2023, FortiGuard Labs reported that Argentina experienced 2,000 million cyberattack attempts. Despite a decrease of 80% from the previous year, experts warn that this trend does not necessarily indicate good news. The shift towards fewer massive attacks and an increase in more targeted, sophisticated exploits and new variants of malware and ransomware poses challenges for organizations worldwide.

The Latin America and Caribbean region experienced 200 billion attempted attacks in 2023, with Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia being the most affected countries. Globally, the evolving threat landscape makes users vulnerable to cyberattacks through a wide range of devices connected to the internet.

Fortinet’s data highlights specific cases in Argentina that showcase the impact of cyberattacks on both public and private entities. From ransomware attacks on major companies to breaches in regulatory entities like the National Securities Commission, these incidents underscore the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures.

To address these threats, Fortinet advises organizations to integrate cybersecurity as part of their business strategy by adopting comprehensive platforms that combine network and security components. Automation and AI capabilities can help detect and mitigate intrusion attempts, safeguarding networks from sophisticated and targeted attacks. The cybersecurity industry is witnessing a shift towards more strategic and proactive defense mechanisms to counter evolving cyber threats.