The Internet offers a world of connections and opportunities – but there are also dangers lurking around every corner. According to the latest Vodacom Business cybersecurity report, titled Cybersecurity as an Imperative for Growth, cyberattacks are a universal threat, with 62% of global organisations reporting an increase in the severity of security issues over the past two years. 

Cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated, too. And just because you know a threat exists, doesn’t mean you know how to deal with it. “Despite its prevalence, only 36% of organisations feel confident in their ability to withstand a ransomware attack,” the report warns. 

AI As A Cyberthreat 

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the latest weapon in the cybercriminal’s arsenal. “Attackers use AI to enhance and automate cyberattacks, making phishing, malware, and other tactics more sophisticated and harder to detect,” the report states. “AI-driven attacks can quickly adapt to defensive measures, resulting in faster, more widespread breaches that can bypass traditional cybersecurity defences.” 

Vodacom Business Fighting Fire With Fire 

That’s the bad news. However, Vodacom Business is harnessing the same AI technology to combat cybercrime and keep you safe online. And if using AI-enhanced cybersecurity to keep you safe from AI-powered cybercrime sounds like Vodacom is fighting fire with fire… Well, that’s because it is.  

“Security professionals need to combat increasingly sophisticated cyber threats and a growing number of attacks without significant increases in budget or personnel,” says security firm Kaspersky. “On the positive side, AI greatly reduces the workload on security analysts, while also accelerating many phases of incident handling – from detection to response.” 

Vodacom’s Cybersecurity as an Imperative for Growth report confirms this. “Automation and AI tools are increasingly used to support human teams to monitor networks, detect anomalies, and identify potential vulnerabilities,” the report states. “AI has become an invaluable asset in cybersecurity, augmenting the workforce and enabling faster, more precise threat detection.” 

Prioritising Cybersecurity 

Cybersecurity is the top priority for 42% of global organisations, the report found. That’s a good thing. “By prioritising cybersecurity, businesses can protect their reputation, maintain customer trust, and ensure operational continuity,” says Videsha Proothveerajh, Director of Vodacom Business. “Vodacom Business is committed to supporting businesses in their cybersecurity journey, equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to safeguard their operations. We recognise that the question isn’t whether an attack will happen, but when. Turning to a digital solutions provider that understands the ins and outs of your operations is key to building a security posture that can mitigate risk, from the factory floor to the C-suite.” 

The Internet of Things is a good example of this approach in action. Vodacom has heavily invested in Internet of Things (IoT) solutions, expanding into areas like smart cities and connected devices. “To manage the cybersecurity risks associated with IoT, Vodacom has implemented strong security protocols that ensure devices and networks are protected from unauthorised access,” the report notes. “By embedding cybersecurity into its IoT innovations, Vodacom provides secure connectivity solutions that meet both customer needs and regulatory standards.” 

Whether you’re a big business or a small entrepreneur, it’s good to know that you and your data are safe when you’re online. You can boost your business security with these Vodacom Business cybersecurity solutions. Plus, if you want more business tech advice, click here.