Cybersecurity Predictions for 2025

2025 will be a big year for SME cybersecurity. Technology is continuing to change at pace, presenting new threats daily. At Mason Infotech we’ve identified some key trends that we predict will dominate the cybersecurity conversation in the coming year. From stricter compliance requirements to the rise of cybersecurity insurance, here’s what businesses need to prepare for in 2025.

Increased Compliance Requirements

Governments and regulatory bodies are cracking down on data protection, with stricter compliance requirements having come into force every year since 2020. Businesses must be prepared to meet these obligations as new technologies emerge.

One tool that’s likely to gain traction is Microsoft Purview, a powerful solution for data governance and compliance. Purview enables organisations to:

• Classify and protect sensitive information across platforms
• Automate compliance reporting
• monitor insider risks and take a more proactive approach to preventing data leaks

As data protection laws evolve, leveraging tools like Purview will be essential for businesses aiming to stay compliant. Companies that adopt proactive data governance strategies will not only meet regulations but also build trust with their clients.

Cybersecurity Insurance

Insurers have been offering specific cybersecurity products for some time, but the market grew by 10 times in 2024, and we expect to see the same again in 2025.

As part of this growth, we're expecting insurers to:

• Demand more rigorous security measures before offering policies
• Require evidence of regular assessments
• Focus on mitigating ransomware

For SMEs, this means tightening your posture in response to these increased demands.

Increasing Volume and Sophistication of Phishing Attacks

Phishing remains one of the most effective methods of breaching security measures, and so in 2025 we're expecting to see an increasing volume and sophistication of these attacks. Expect to see:

• TOAD attacks. Combining phishing with social engineering to increase the trust levels of the victim, TOAD attacks will rise in volume next year.
• AI-Driven Phishing. Attackers will use AI to craft highly personalised phishing messages that are harder to detect.
• Mobile Phishing - targeting mobile devices as they become more likely to contain company data.

To counter these threats, businesses must invest in robust email security solutions, implement multi-factor authentication, and conduct regular staff training to recognise and report suspicious activity.

Supply Chain Vulnerability Management

As organisations increasingly rely on third-party vendors, supply chain attacks will continue to rise in 2025. Cybercriminals target smaller vendors with weaker defences to gain access to larger organisations. To mitigate these risks, businesses should:

• Conduct thorough assessments of partners and vendors
• Implement strict access controls for partners
• Work with MSPs to understand and establish best practice
  

The cybersecurity landscape is constantly changing, and staying ahead of these trends is crucial for protecting your business. At Mason Infotech, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges with tailored solutions, cutting-edge tools, and expert advice.