The digital world is constantly evolving, and with it, cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated. As businesses become more reliant on technology for their operations, cybercriminals are honing their techniques, creating a threat environment that could be devastating if proper precautions are not taken.
Ransomware: A Growing Threat
Ransomware, while not a new concept, continues to evolve in its impact and sophistication. Víctor Ronco, CEO of Zerod, explains that “in 2025, ransomware attacks are expected to be more targeted and personalized, with the aim of maximizing profits for attackers.” Cybercriminals not only encrypt data, but also threaten to publish it, increasing the pressure on victims. In Spain, ransomware attacks are a growing concern, with more than 120,000 incidents reported in 2024, according to the National Cybersecurity Institute (INCIBE).
The main cyber threats will continue to remain in 2025 with ransomware and phishing at the forefront
Companies in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and critical infrastructure are especially vulnerable due to the sensitivity of the information they handle. Additionally, the proliferation of ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) tools allows even inexperienced actors to carry out devastating attacks. This business model illustrates the professionalization of cybercrime, which already operates with structures similar to those of legal companies.
Advanced Phishing: More Sophisticated Scams
Phishing, one of the oldest cyberattack techniques, is also evolving. Ronco maintains that “advanced phishing attacks in 2025 will use artificial intelligence (AI) to create extremely compelling and personalized messages.” Thanks to access to large volumes of personal data through previous security breaches, attackers will be able to impersonate identities almost perfectly.
In Spain, phishing campaigns have been detected aimed especially at SMEs and end users, with an increase of 35% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Targets include online banking platforms and business management systems. Additionally, phishing is no longer limited to generic emails; We will see targeted attacks through text messages (smishing), phone calls (vishing) and social media platforms.
Vulnerabilities in IoT: A New Attack Vector
The Internet of Things (IoT) promises unprecedented connectivity, but it also opens new doors for attackers. It is estimated that by 2025 there will be more than 75 billion IoT devices in use, many of which lack robust security measures. In Spain, the growth of smart cities and the use of IoT devices in industries such as energy and transportation has increased risks.
INCIBE reported that in 2024 critical vulnerabilities were detected in more than 60% of IoT devices analyzed in corporate environments. These vulnerabilities could allow attackers to access corporate networks, steal sensitive data, or even disrupt critical operations.
Strategies to Mitigate Threats
The cost of cyber threats is not only measured in financial losses, but also in reputational damage, operational disruptions and potential regulatory sanctions. According to recent studies, the global cost of cybercrime could reach 10.5 billion dollars annually by 2025. In Spain, it is estimated that the costs related to cyberattacks could exceed 20 billion euros annually.
To face these challenges, the experts at Zerod, the first marketplace for ethical hackers and cybersecurity consultants, recommend five key strategies:
- Adoption of a Cybersecurity Culture: Safety should be an organizational priority, with ongoing training for employees.
- Implementation of Advanced Technologies: Tools such as static and dynamic application analysis (SAST, DAST) and attack surface monitoring are essential.
- Vulnerability Management: Perform regular security audits and keep software and hardware up to date.
- Incident Response Planning and Testing: Have a clear and proven plan to respond to security incidents.
- Collaboration with Cybersecurity Experts: Partner with specialized companies like Zerod to stay one step ahead of threats.
In an increasingly connected world, cybersecurity is not a luxury, but a necessity. The threats looming in 2025 demand a proactive and coordinated response from companies. Investing in security today is the key to protecting the most valuable assets of tomorrow: information, customer trust and business continuity.
