Cybersecurity in 2025
A Race Against Time
Cybercrime – A Global Threat
On January 15, 2025, SquardTech Research & Insights published its latest Cybersecurity Risk Barometer. The results are clear: For the fourth consecutive year, cyber incidents such as data breaches, ransomware attacks, and IT outages rank at the top of the list of the most significant business risks worldwide. This alarming trend reflects the challenges of an increasingly digital world where technological advances and geopolitical tensions expose companies of all sizes to greater risks.
The Economic Impact
Cybercrime is projected to cause an estimated $12 trillion in annual damages by 2025 (Forrester forecast), making it the third-largest economic force globally—surpassed only by the US and China. Unlike legitimate economies, this “dark economy” thrives on theft, extortion, and sabotage. Of particular concern is the increasing professionalization of cybercrime, fueled by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the rise of Cybercrime-as-a-Service (CaaS).
The "Big Four" State-Sponsored Cyber Threats
In the cybersecurity world, the “Big Four” refers to the four main state-sponsored cyber actors: China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. These nations leverage cyber operations as strategic tools to achieve political and economic goals.
Country Cyber Strategy
1 . China Focuses on economic espionage, stealing intellectual property to boost national technology and economic power.
2 . Russia Promotes political instability through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and critical infrastructure attacks.
3 . North Korea Funds government operations via cybercrime, including cryptocurrency theft (estimated to account for 50% of export revenue).
4 . Iran Uses cyberattacks for retaliation and regional influence, especially by targeting critical infrastructure.
These actors operate ruthlessly and professionally, using cutting-edge technologies. A coordinated global response is needed to counter these threats.
Cybercrime-as-a-Service: Crime Becomes a Business
Cybercrime is no longer the work of lone hackers—it’s a global industry with clear structures. Through Cybercrime-as-a-Service (CaaS), even non-technical criminals can purchase ready-made cyberattack tools from black markets. The BKA’s 9-pillar model explains how specialized services—from malware development to phishing kits to money laundering—enable scalable, hard-to-predict attacks.
Small & Medium-Sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the Crosshairs
The 2024 SquardTech Cybersecurity Report highlights a concerning trend: SMEs are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals. While large corporations have extensive security measures, SMEs often lack the resources, expertise, or budget to defend themselves effectively.
An Analogy:
In the digital wilderness, cybercriminals are like a lion encountering hikers—they don’t pick the strongest or weakest prey; they attack the easiest target.
Top SME Risk Areas:
- Lack of Specialized IT Security Solutions
- Healthcare Sector – Hospitals and clinics are prime targets due to critical operations.
- Industry & Logistics – Ransomware can shut down production lines, causing major losses.
SMEs must invest in preventive cybersecurity measures to survive in this landscape.
Cyber Insurance: More Than Just Coverage
Cybercrime is no longer a niche problem—companies across all industries are affected. Industries like healthcare have mandatory security compliance, but many sectors lack such enforcement. This is where cyber insurance becomes crucial, not just as financial backup but as a strategic partner in security.
At SquardTech, our Cybersecurity Division offers:
- Risk Analysis & Security Gap Identification before coverage
- Access to Modern Security Tools and Protocols
- Real-World Expertise from Actual Incident Cases
Our Comprehensive Cybersecurity Services Include:
- Regular Vulnerability Scans & Penetration Testing
- 24/7 Incident Response & Support
- Phishing Simulations & Security Awareness Training
- Forensic Post-Attack Analysis
- Technology Recommendations Based on Real Attack Data
Industry-Specific Security Solutions from SquardTech
At SquardTech, we understand that each industry faces unique cyber threats. Our specialists provide tailored solutions for:
- Healthcare & Social Services – Protection for hospitals, clinics, and care providers
- Transport & Logistics – Security for supply chains, freight, and logistics hubs
- Manufacturing & SMEs – Custom security concepts for production & tech-driven industries
Let’s Secure Your Business—Now and in the Future
SquardTech combines proactive security, and real-time threat intelligence to make your business resilient in 2025 and beyond.
Ready to Protect Your Business?
Contact SquardTech for a Free Cybersecurity Consultation.
Email: info@squardtech.com
Website: www.squardtech.com