LAHORE: Advanced persistent threats (APTs), classified as human-driven cyber attacks, were detected in 25 per cent of companies, accounting for over 43 per cent of all high-severity incidents. This represents a staggering 74 per cent increase compared to 2023 and a 43 per cent rise from 2022.

According to the latest Kaspersky Managed Detection and Response (MDR) analyst report, these findings are based on an analysis of MDR incidents identified by Kaspersky’s Security Operations Centre. The report highlights the most common attacker tactics, techniques and tools, as well as the characteristics of detected incidents and their distribution across regions and industry sectors among MDR customers.

Despite advancements in automated detection technologies, determined attackers continue to exploit vulnerabilities and bypass these systems. Notably, APTs were detected across every sector except telecommunications, with the IT and government sectors being the most affected.

Furthermore, incidents classified as human-driven attacks, which were confirmed by customers as cyber exercises, accounted for more than 17 per cent of total incidents. Serious security policy violations comprised approximately 12 per cent of high-severity events, while malware-related incidents also accounted for over 12 per cent, primarily impacting the financial, industrial and IT sectors.

“In 2024, we observed a significant rise in advanced persistent threats. This alarming trend underscores that, despite advancements in automated detection, determined human-driven attacks continue to exploit vulnerabilities across various sectors. Organisations must enhance their preparedness and invest in comprehensive cybersecurity strategies to counter these sophisticated threats,” said Head of the Security Operations Centre at Kaspersky Sergey Soldatov.