Introduction:
Cloud computing has been one of the most rapidly adopted technologies in recent years. The benefits of cloud-based solutions such as cost savings, increased productivity, and scalability have driven organizations to embrace cloud environments. However, as more and more businesses embrace the cloud, cybercriminals are developing new tactics to exploit vulnerabilities. As we move into 2023, here are some new threats that technologists need to be aware of in order to protect their cloud environments.

AI-powered attacks:
Artificial intelligence (AI) brings unprecedented efficiency to cybercriminals. AI-powered attacks are becoming more sophisticated, and it is not difficult to imagine that they will become prevalent in 2023. New AI-powered attacks are capable of learning and adapting their tactics on-the-go, leading to increased risks in cloud environments. This makes AI-powered attacks harder to detect as well as to prevent, and technologists will need to employ more advanced countermeasures to protect their cloud infrastructure.

Data leaks and breaches:
Data leaks and breaches are one of the most significant threats to cloud environments. In 2023, new types of data breaches are expected to emerge, facilitated by the increase in cloud-based data storage. Cybercriminals are becoming more talented in social engineering and phishing tactics, allowing them to bypass security measures and gain access to sensitive data. Cloud providers must be vigilant to maintain data security by implementing strict data access controls, employing state-of-the-art security tools, and collaborating with clients to implement strong security protocols.

Container Security Failures:
Containers are becoming a critical part of cloud deployments, offering superior scalability, portability, and efficiency. However, they can also offer an increased attack surface. Containers have opened up a new attack vector for cybercriminals to exploit, with a single vulnerable container potentially compromising the whole system. To mitigate these new threats, it will become vital to use advanced container security tools and deployment practices to minimize the chances of a successful attack.

Supply Chain Attacks:
Supply chain attacks consist of compromising a vendor’s products or services and acting as a backdoor to infiltrate many organizations that rely on those vendors. Traceability problems can be the main obstacle in both detecting and reacting to them. Cloud environments are especially vulnerable to this type of attack, and in 2023 there will be a significant increase in targeting cloud providers to access their client’s data. Technologists must have robust plans to minimize exposure in their supply chains and address issues such as ongoing monitoring, testing, and establishing zero trust architectures.

Ransomware attacks:
Ransomware attacks will continue to be a severe threat to cloud environments in 2023. Unlike traditional ransomware, distributed ledger technology (DLT) and zero trust security principles will support criminal efforts in an attempt to extort money from victims. Technologists need to implement systems and processes meant to protect against ransomware, including data backup, multiple signatures for data integrity control, and cybersecurity training for staff to avoid falling victim to ransomware tactics.

Conclusion:
As more companies move towards cloud-based solutions, the number and severity of threats to cloud environments will inevitably increase. As seen in our predictions, 2023 will see the emergence of new threats and already existing ones move from “proof of concept” to “real-world” situations. Technologists must ensure that they remain up to date with industry trends, and protect their cloud environments, employee’s, and client’s interests. Implementing advanced security measures, that include comprehensive fraud detection and security incident response teams together with the best partner collaboration, is the only way sustainable success within the cloud paradigm will be achieved.