Cybersecurity is our best defense against malicious cybercriminal attacks. An organization’s strong cybersecurity policies and infrastructure work to create security from attacks and potential attacks. Heavy investments are made to reap the benefits of cybersecurity, such as protecting assets, sensitive data, and national security. Organizations need the right tools and strategies to survive.��

What Is Cybersecurity And Its Importance

Cybersecurity is a defense system to defend us and digital devices from hackers, spammers, and cybercriminals.�� Most professionals work on finding the best ways to protect personal and organizational assets, including computers, software programs, smartphones, networks, and databases, from attacks.

Cybersecurity is a broad field covering preventing identity theft and detecting international digital weapons. Attacks are typically focused on the following:

• Accessing information
• Changing information
• Destroying information
• Extorting money from users
• Interrupting business processes

Organizations must constantly work on ways to prevent the loss of revenue, sensitive data, and interruption of their computer systems. According to the FBI, cyber attacks cost the U.S. about $12.5 billion in 2023. This is a 22% increase from 2022 and about $40 per person.

Beware Of These Types Of Cyber Threats

We need to be aware of common cyber threats to recognize them and stop them. Three classifications of crimes include computer-assisted crimes, computer attacks, and those where computers are incidental to the crime. Typical threats include:

• Adware is a type of malware that can install an unwanted program that generates unwanted online ads.
• Botnets are a major attack by remotely controlled malware-infected devices. Compromised computers become part of the botnet system.
• is aimed at harming computers and information technology and creating major social disruption.
• Denial of Service attacks flood a network or computer with an overload of processes, making it impossible to respond to user requests.
• Malware can install harmful software without approval or disrupt a computer system
• Man-In-The-Middle attacks involve hackers who insert themselves into a two-person online transaction. The hackers can filter and steal desired data.
• Phishing is a false communication trick that typically asks us to follow instructions that are risky for personal information. Some attacks also install malware.
• SQL attacks insert malicious code into SQL-using servers, which causes problems.
• Trojans trick us into thinking we are opening a harmless file. Once in place, it can let cybercriminals access our system.

Cybersecurity Provides Many Benefits

The benefits of organizations installing cybersecurity measures outweigh their costs. Research has shown the many benefits include:

• The essential benefit is protecting computer systems, networks, and data
• Companies boost their brand trust and keep more customers
• They spur innovation and separate themselves from the competition
• Power plant blackouts caused by hackers can be prevented
• People’s personal financial information can be better protected
• Response time to attacks is faster and less expensive than without cybersecurity

Cybersecurity service providers are hiring more staff who are available round the clock. This service can be more cost-effective than in-house It security

Cybersecurity Misconceptions You Should Know

Misconceptions and myths are floating around that we should be aware of because managers and employees sometimes perpetuate them. Don’t believe the following:

• Antivirus software is enough to protect us – Since not all attacks and threats are known, antivirus software is insufficient protection. Evolving malware may not be detected by such simple means.
• Cybersecurity is the IT department’s job – Cybersecurity is a group effort including managers, employees, and the IT department. Human error is the leading cause of data breaches, and effective training must be put in place.
• – The safety of data in the cloud depends on the provider’s security practices as well as your company’s practices.
• My business is too small to become a cyber target – Cyber Criminals often attack small organizations because they lack strong cybersecurity protection.
• Strong passwords provide all the protection we need. Strong passwords are helpful but are not foolproof. Sophisticated attackers can compromise passwords and cause data breaches.

Cybersecurity in today’s digital world creates a growing need for skilled professionals who can help protect networks, systems, and sensitive information. Earning an associate degree in cybersecurity can help prepare you for entry-level career opportunities in this expanding field. Contact us today for more information��to learn more about our program and how to get started.

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Cybersecurity attempts to deter cyber attackers’ efforts and safeguard our assets. These attackers are now busy wreaking havoc with automation systems in factories and plants worldwide. ��Contact ɫ���� today for more information.

What Is Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity seeks to protect applications, computing devices, financial assets, networks, programs, sensitive data, and systems from digital attacks. The attacks appear in these forms:

• Accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information
• Extorting money from users with ransomware
• Interrupting normal business processes

Neglecting a company’s cybersecurity can make its sensitive information and data vulnerable to cyberattacks. These attacks can go so far as to halt business operations or damage a company’s reputation. Today’s customers, automation managers, and IT departments are more aware of cybercrime and expect their data and operations to be protected.

The three major areas of cybersecurity include network, cloud, and physical. Network security uses multiple layers of defenses in the network and at the edge to block cybercrime. Cloud security is necessary as more companies move toward digital transformation strategies and use cloud-based tools and services. Physical security is designed to protect people, property, and physical assets from actions and events that could lead to damage or loss.

Cybersecurity And Automation

Conventional cybersecurity solutions are ineffective against the huge growth of sophisticated security threats. The FBI reported cybercrime losses of $6.9 billion in 2021 and $10.1 billion in 2022. In the last five years, the FBI has received 3.26 million complaints that total $27.6 billion in U.S. losses. Cybersecurity automation uses artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to disarm and manage these threats and losses. It uses algorithms, software tools, and advanced electronic systems to automatically detect, access, and respond to security threats.

Automating cybersecurity processes in manufacturing facilities allows them to run faster and more efficiently. This technology lets companies detect and disarm cyber threats before they can disrupt operations. The latest automation cybersecurity helps fight against the most sophisticated cybercriminals who pose threats.

Potential Risks And Threats In Automation

As manufacturers adopt greater levels of technology, automation, and connectivity, a sophisticated cybersecurity strategy is essential. Although these advances create higher productivity and efficiency, they also create new points of vulnerability that include:

• IP theft results in the unauthorized use or theft of intellectual property (IP)
• Cyber attacks to steal data and money or disrupt production are frequent
• Human error is caused by not enough security training to combat crime
• Employee abuse comes from employee negligence or theft
• Public clouds are attacked by sophisticated hackers from any location
• Network vulnerabilities are exposed to outside cyber thieves.

The top five categories of cyber crimes in 2033, ranked most to least, were phishing, data breach, non-payment/non-delivery scams, extortion, and tech support scams. Factories specifically face data poisoning, system manipulation, transfer learning attacks, and robotic programming.

Preventive Measures For Automation Cybersecurity

Fortunately, there are some preventative measures the manufacturing industry can put into action to reduce or eliminate cyber crimes, including:

• Prioritize Risks by identifying vulnerabilities and ranking them based on overall risk
• Use strong encryption to defeat attempts to monitor networks
• Add an incident management plan for actions related to high-priority risks
• Beef up cybersecurity automation to use more real-time network monitoring
• Upgrade, implement, and train employees to use higher-level security policies
• Implement an to monitor networks for malicious activities and take corrective actions

Manufacturing is so competitive today that companies must research security measures so that hackers will not move them out of their ranking in the global marketplace. Generally, the best results are obtained by working with a security consulting firm that specializes in your industry.

The Future Of Cybersecurity In Automation

The manufacturing industry is experiencing cyber risks and threats at unprecedented levels. Evolving technologies and their vulnerabilities open factories to sophisticated and severe attacks. Companies must make cybersecurity a top priority to safeguard their operations.

If you want a career in automation and electronic systems technology or to upgrade some skills in your current job, enroll in a qualified training program. Employers are seeking qualified workers in virtually all states. Contact ɫ���� today for more information.

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Leadership must focus on the risks that matter most and determine how to establish and manage successful strategies. Current management can establish a training program, or an outside company can provide training and education services to achieve the purpose. Contact ɫ���� today for more information.

Focus On The Risks That Matter Most

Does top management always know the greatest security risks they face? Generally, they do, but all organizations are vulnerable, especially small businesses that think they cannot afford the best security measures. Management must focus on the risks that matter most to their data, networks, equipment, and IT processes.

The best approach to protect an organization is by conducting a cyber risk analysis. By doing so, you can plan for a more secure future by:

• Identifying threats
• Assessing threats
• Mitigating threats
• Continuing to improve your plan

Cybersecurity must be a top priority for any organization in today’s technological world. Cybercriminals are causing problems on a global scale that are costing businesses billions of dollars each year. Once you determine the greatest risks you face, you can begin to do something about them to protect your organization.

How To Manage Successful Cybersecurity Strategies

Any organization needs a plan and the knowledge to use it effectively. Any organization can apply some of the best practices in use today, including:

• Adopt a cyber risk management framework as the best defense against cyber crimes. You should conduct a risk assessment, establish policies and procedures, create an incident response plan, continually monitor plans, and use multiple layers of security. The management framework must be compliant with best industry practices and fit the organization’s budget
• Implement Preventative Measures to reduce or eliminate threats before they enter your IT systems. Employees can create and implement them or an outside service can do the job for you. First, use firewalls to control the incoming and outgoing network traffic and combine them with antivirus programs to detect and stop malicious software.

Other things that can be done include updating and patching all software, encrypting data adequately, and making sure that only authorized employees can access sensitive data.

• Train and educate employees adequately to be your strongest ally. Conduct regular cyber awareness training at all levels in the company. Foster a culture of security throughout the organization, beginning now and into the future. Practice simulated cyber attacks as a teaching method. They will test your employees’ responses and the effectiveness of your cybersecurity plan. The results will guide changes needed in the training plan to be more effective.

• Create a long-term continuity plan to counteract a cyber incident so that critical IT functions can continue with minimal disruption. Develop strategies to maintain essential IT services, functions, and the resources needed to support them.

Back up data regularly in secure locations and test the backups often to ensure data integrity. Test the plan often to identify gaps, refine procedures, and update for new technology or trending threats.

• Monitor, evaluate, adapt, and improve strategies to stay ahead of potential threats and hackers. If you don’t, cybercriminals will stay ahead of you and your systems. Perform consistent security assessments to identify new or suspected weaknesses and comply with the latest industry regulations and standards. Seek help from professional IT service companies recognized as experts and review training as needed.

What Does A Cybersecurity Manager Do?

A cybersecurity manager leads a team of IT professionals to protect sensitive data, networks, equipment, and processes from hackers. This position carries much responsibility and commands a competitive salary in virtually all organizations. The typical job duties include:

• Monitor the channels through which organizational information flows
• Observe all operations across the network and systems
• Manage the infrastructure that facilitates the IT operations
• Implement software upgrades and perform maintenance on hardware
• Manage and optimize company and system resources dedicated to critical tasks
• Keep employees focused on actions that are top priorities

research the best security tools for their organizations and keep up with changes to internal and external policies. They ensure compliance with current industry standards and regulations. They are also in charge of mitigating security risks by adopting effective strategies. Performing regular security audits shows the strengths and weaknesses of the strategies and demonstrates that cybersecurity is a top priority.

Learn more about a career in this growing occupation by requesting information about an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Information Technology.

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Great technicians distinguish themselves through superior communication, empathy, proactive problem-solving, and adaptability. While technical and basic soft skills get them hired, advanced soft skills—such as active listening, integrity, and time management—allow them to deliver exceptional customer service, work effectively within teams, and manage high-pressure situations. Well-trained technicians are in demand and build strong careers. Contact ɫ���� today for more information.

Technician Soft Skills: Advanced Communication And Listening

• Translating complex technical issues into simple language for customers and actively listening to identify root problems.
• Empathetically engaging beyond hearing words.
• Attempting to fully understand intent, context, and non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone, to foster trust and collaboration.
• Engaging in reflective paraphrasing and maintaining open-minded curiosity.
• Asking insightful questions and providing intentional, comfortable silences that allow speakers to process thoughts.
• Showing that you care about the customer’s needs and are sincere in listening to what customers are saying.

Empathy And Customer Services Skills

Technician Soft Skills: Proactivity And Adaptability

• Anticipate needs, such as performing inspections and asking questions before meeting with customers.
• Offer preventative maintenance services and explain their advantages. If you sell annual maintenance plans, offer them as a courtesy.
• Fix issues before they escalate through professional diagnoses.
• Show adaptability by tailoring communications to needs and moods.
• Quickly learn new technologies in the shop and training needed on the job.
• Learn to adjust to unexpected on-site challenges.
• Technicians must learn to act, not react, to upset customers.

Problem-Solving And Critical Thinking Skills Are Invaluable

More Technician Soft Skills: Integrity And Reliability

• Consistently delivering high-quality work and admitting mistakes.
• Communicate transparently with customers and coworkers.
• Use clear, non-technical language to explain repairs
• Adhere to schedules and respect everyone’s time
• Prioritize honesty over quick fixes to foster long-term trust.
• If you can’t determine the problem, call your supervisor and ask for help.
• Show you trust other coworkers’ judgment and work.

Teamwork And Collaboration Go A Long Way

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SSL encryption layers are an important part of modern information systems security. At ɫ����, Information Technology students receive professional training in networking, cybersecurity, and data protection concepts, including technologies such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) that help secure online communications.

SSL (Secure Sockets Layer), more commonly called TLS, secures internet communication using two main layers: the Handshake Protocol (for authentication and key exchange) and the Record Protocol (for data encapsulation and encryption). It combines asymmetric encryption (for secure key sharing) and symmetric encryption (for fast, secure data transfer) to ensure privacy, integrity, and server authentication. Contact ɫ���� today for more information.

Key Components Of SSL Encryption Layers

• Server Authentication: The server sends an SSL certificate, containing a public key, to the browser to prove its identity.
• Asymmetric Encryption: Client and server use public/private keys to securely negotiate a temporary symmetric session key.
• Key Establishment: This step ensures that only the intended client and server know the session key, protecting against man-in-the-middle attacks.

• Symmetric Encryption: Once the handshake is complete, all data (like credit card numbers or passwords) is encrypted using the agreed-upon symmetric session key.
• Data Integrity: The record protocol ensures the data has not been altered in transit by using a Message Authentication Code (MAC) to check for tampering.

Summary of SSL Encryption Layers

Who Uses SSL Encryption Layers?

• E-commerce Websites & Online Banking: Websites with https:// in the browser bar, which protects sensitive customer information.
• Web Browsers & Web Servers: Modern browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Safari) and web servers (Apache, Nginx, IIS) use TLS to secure communication.
• Mobile Application Developers: Used for API communication between mobile apps and backend servers.
• Email Providers: Cloud-based email services use SSL/TLS to secure transmission.
• Enterprises & Organizations: Use SSL/TLS certificates to authenticate their identity and secure internal data.

• Securing Checkout Pages: Encrypting credit card numbers.
• Login Pages: Protecting usernames and passwords.
• Cloud Data Storage: Ensuring files transmitted to the cloud are private.
• Internal Network Communications: Protecting employee data transfers within an organization.

• OpenSSL: A widely used library.
• SChannel (Secure Channel): Microsoft’s implementation.
• SSL/TLS Certificates: Issued by Certificate Authorities to verify identity.

What Can Happen When You Don’t Use It?

• Data Theft and Eavesdropping: Without encryption, sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, and personal data can be intercepted by hackers.
• Man-in-the-Middle Attacks (MitM): Attackers can intercept or alter data between the user and the server, such as hijacking sessions or injecting malicious content.
• Browser Warning Labels: Browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Safari will display a “Not Secure” warning to visitors, which deters traffic and increases bounce rates.
• Loss of Credibility and Trust: Users often leave websites that appear unsafe, resulting in damaged brand reputation.
• Negative SEO Impact: Search engines like Google prioritize HTTPS and may lower the ranking of websites without SSL, making them harder to find.
• Phishing Attack Vulnerability: Non-SSL sites are easier to impersonate, making it easier for attackers to run phishing scams that steal user information.
• Non-Compliance and Fines: Many industry standards (e.g., PCI-DSS for payments) mandate encryption. Lacking it can result in legal consequences and penalties.
• Malware Risks: Without SSL, traffic cannot be scanned by security tools, allowing malicious code to pass through to your network.

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Information Technology schools are great places to train for in-demand jobs and careers. Information Technology school basics cover the foundational skills required to manage computer systems, networks, and data in professional settings. Key areas include hardware, operating systems, networking fundamentals, cybersecurity, and troubleshooting. Programs focus on practical skills in software applications, such as Microsoft Excel, and often include training in cloud computing and AI tools to prepare for careers in technical support and system administration. Contact ɫ���� today for more information.

Core Areas Of Study In Information Technology Schools

• Hardware & Software: Understanding how to identify, install, configure, and maintain computer components and peripherals (laptops, mobile devices, servers).
• Networking Basics: Learning how devices connect to the internet and internal networks, including IP addressing, routers, switches, and network protocols.
• Operating Systems: Training in various operating systems, primarily Windows, along with basic knowledge of Linux and macOS.
• Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Identifying security vulnerabilities, implementing antivirus software, using firewalls, and managing data security.
• Troubleshooting: Developing problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve software and hardware issues, along with fixing, upgrading, and maintaining infrastructure.
• Data Management & Software: Utilizing databases (SQL) and learning productivity tools like spreadsheets to manage information effectively.

Key Skills Beginners Need

• Programming Languages: Proficiency in Python, Java, JavaScript, C++, and PHP for software development, automation, and web application creation.
• Network Management: Designing, configuring, and troubleshooting network infrastructure, including routers, switches, and TCP/IP protocols.
• Cybersecurity: Implementing security measures, ethical hacking, threat detection, and data protection to prevent breaches.
• Database Management: Developing, managing, and querying databases using SQL and relational systems (e.g., MySQL).
• Cloud Computing: Deploying and managing applications in virtual environments like AWS or Microsoft Azure.
• System Administration: Installing, configuring, and maintaining operating systems such as Linux and Windows Server.
• Data Analysis: Analyzing datasets for insights to support business decision-making and using predictive modeling.

• IT Project Management: Understanding the lifecycle of IT projects, including planning, resource allocation, and technical implementation.
• Troubleshooting: Identifying, analyzing, and fixing hardware and software issues.
• Systems Analysis: Evaluating an organization’s technology requirements and designing effective information systems.

• Analytical Thinking: Evaluating technological decisions and solving complex technical problems.
• Communication: Interacting with users, clients, and team members to explain technical issues.
• Collaboration: Working within team structures for development or maintenance initiatives.

Typical Information Technology School Training Paths

• Associate Degree in IT (2 years): Offers a faster route to entry-level jobs like IT specialist or systems administrator.
• Technical School/Vocational Programs: Offer accelerated, specialized training focusing on quick job placement in areas like networking or security.
• IT Certifications: Specialized, exam-based credentials—such as CompTIA A+, CISSP, or Cisco certifications—that prove competency in specific roles like security analysts or network engineers. Entry-level certifications such as CompTIA IT Fundamentals (ITF+), A+, and Network+ are often emphasized to validate skills.

• Cybersecurity: Focuses on protecting networks, data, and systems from unauthorized access.
• Data Science and Analytics: Involves analyzing raw data for business insights.
• Technical Support/Network Administration: Focuses on maintaining IT systems and assisting users.
• Software Development/Design: Focuses on creating software, apps, and digital content.

Demand For Information Technology School Graduates

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Information technology school requirements are the first step toward entering one of today’s most dynamic and in-demand industries. Information Technology careers continue to offer strong employment opportunities, with the projecting hundreds of thousands of job openings each year through 2034. Earning an Associate Degree can help prepare you for an entry-level position in the field. Let’s explore how ɫ���� can help you get started on your career path. Contact us today for more information.

Steps To Take To Enroll In Information Technology School

Can High School Courses Help With An Information Technology Degree?

• Computer and Information Technology
• English and Communication
• Higher Math Classes
• Success Skills

Current Direction Of The Information Technology Industry

• AI Dominance: Artificial Intelligence is the primary driver of disruption, moving from pilot programs to agentic AI (AI that can autonomously run workflows), which is reshaping business strategies and IT architecture.
• Market Growth & Trends: The global IT market is growing, with a expected to drive the market significantly higher over the next decade. Key investment areas include cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
• Employment and Talent: The demand for tech professionals remains strong, particularly for AI, cloud, and cybersecurity expertise. Despite some layoffs, the overall employment outlook is positive.
• Regulatory Scrutiny: Tech companies are under increasing pressure to comply with new global regulations regarding data protection, cybersecurity, and ethical AI.
• Hardware and Infrastructure: The need for increased computing power for AI is driving demand for specialized hardware and advanced data center capabilities.

• Operational Shifts: Organizations are becoming leaner and more strategic, moving toward modular, AI-enabled architectures.
• Geopolitical and Supply Chain Factors: Companies are balancing globalization with self-reliance, diversifying operations to manage risks.
• Sustainability: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) compliance is becoming a key factor in IT investment.

What You Can Do With Your Information Technology School Degree

• Website Development
• Programming
• Network Technician
• IT Customer Support
• Operating Systems
• PC Technician
• Website Manager
• IT Technical Writer
• Software Developer
• Database Programmers

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Hardware and software firewalls work very well together, offering a robust “defense-in-depth” strategy that combines network-wide perimeter defense with granular, device-level protection. The hardware firewall blocks malicious traffic at the edge, while the software firewall provides a secondary layer to stop threats that bypass the perimeter. You will discover much more about their relationship in information technology classes. Contact ɫ���� today for more information.

What Are Firewalls?

• Function: They inspect data packets, determining whether to allow, drop, or reject them based on rules like source/destination IP addresses, port numbers, or protocols.
• Hardware Firewalls: Physical devices positioned between a network and a gateway (e.g., routers).
• Software Firewalls: Programs installed on individual computers to control traffic for that specific device.
• Cloud/SaaS Firewalls: Virtual, cloud-based solutions (e.g., WAF) that protect web applications from specific attacks like SQL injection or cross-site scripting.
• Purpose: They protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and, in some cases, monitor outgoing (egress) traffic for potential compromises.
• Methods: Common techniques include packet filtering, proxy services (acting as an intermediary), and deep packet inspection to analyze data at a deeper level.

Key Benefits Of A Hardware And Software Firewall Combination

Key Firewall Differences

• Hardware Firewalls: Sit between your network and the internet, protecting everything on the network.
• Software Firewalls: Are installed on individual computers, controlling traffic specifically for that device.
• Layered Security: Hardware firewalls protect the entire network, while software firewalls protect individual devices (laptops, servers).
• Specialized Protection: Hardware handles high-volume traffic and network-wide rules, whereas software firewalls can monitor specific, application-level traffic (e.g., outgoing connections from a specific app).
• Redundancy: If one layer fails or is bypassed, the other acts as a backup, increasing overall security.

Important Considerations For Hardware And Software Firewall Combination

ɫ���� Is The Place To Learn Information Technology

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Information Systems Security Failures

Equifax Data Breach of 2017

• Cause: Attackers exploited a vulnerability (CVE-2017-5638) in the Apache Struts framework used on an Equifax dispute portal, which the company failed to patch despite warnings.
• Data Compromised: The breach compromised the names, Social Security numbers, birth dates, addresses, and, in some cases, driver’s license numbers and credit card numbers of approximately 147 million consumers.
• Timeline: The vulnerability was disclosed on March 7, 2017, and exploited between mid-May and July 29, 2017, when the breach was finally discovered.
• Impact: The incident resulted in significant reputational damage, regulatory scrutiny, and a massive settlement to compensate affected individuals for out-of-pocket losses and time spent.
• Response: Equifax offered free credit monitoring and identity theft protection to affected consumers.
• Attribution: The U.S. Department of Justice attributed the attack to members of the Chinese military.

Colonial Pipeline Ransomware (2021) Was An Information Systems Security Failure

• Target: The company’s IT billing systems were compromised, prompting a proactive shutdown of operational technology (OT) to prevent the infection from spreading, according to GAO and CNN.
• Attacker: The Russia-linked ransomware-as-a-service group DarkSide was identified by the .
• Impact: The pipeline, which supplies about 45% of the East Coast’s fuel, was shut down for 5 days.
• Ransom & Recovery: Colonial Pipeline paid 75 bitcoin (approx. $4.4 million at the time) to regain access.
• Law Enforcement Action: The DOJ later seized 63.7 bitcoin (roughly $2.3 million) of the ransom payment.

• Supply Chain Disruption: Panic buying created severe gasoline shortages throughout the Southeastern U.S.
• Policy Changes: The attack served as a “wake-up call” for critical infrastructure security, leading to stricter cybersecurity requirements for pipelines.
• DarkSide Response: The hacking group claimed they did not intend to create societal problems, but rather, their goal was solely to make money.

Another Information Systems Security Failure

• Impact on Ticketmaster: In May 2024, hackers targeted Ticketmaster, a subsidiary of Live Nation, potentially exposing the names, emails, and payment details of 560 million customers.
• Nature of the Breach: The breach was not a direct attack on Snowflake’s core infrastructure, but rather a targeted campaign using stolen credentials (passwords, tokens) to access specific, improperly secured customer instances.
• Vulnerabilities Exploited: Attackers, identified as the group “ShinyHunters” or using aliases such as “Judische” or “Waifu,” bypassed Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and Single Sign-On (SSO) on accounts where these were not enforced.
• Broader Impact: Beyond Ticketmaster, other major companies, including AT&T and Santander, were also affected.
• Discovery: The breach came to light when the database was offered for sale on underground forums in late May 2024.
• Attribution: The attacks were linked to threat actor groups, including ShinyHunters, and stemmed from a broader campaign targeting organizations using Snowflake’s cloud-based data storage.

SolarWinds Supply Chain Attack (2020)

• Method: Attackers compromised SolarWinds’ software build system, inserting malicious code into legitimate updates, which were then digitally signed and distributed to customers.
• Victims: Approx. 18,000 users were exposed, though the attackers (often referred to as SolarStorm) targeted a smaller, high-value subset for deeper, long-term espionage.
• Timeline: Activity started around September 2019, with malicious code updates distributed starting March 2020. The breach was uncovered by FireEye in December 2020.
• Techniques: The attackers used “living off the land” techniques, abusing legitimate administrative tools, and performed “Golden SAML” attacks to steal identity tokens, granting them access to cloud services (e.g., Office 365).
• Impact: The breach targeted major U.S. government agencies, including the Department of ɫ����land Security, and technology companies.
• The attack highlighted the severe risk of software supply chain vulnerabilities.

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If you want to earn an associate degree in information technology or brush up on your IT skills, consider studying at an accredited school like ɫ����. You will find yourself at the forefront of the latest technological improvements and prepare for a stable job. You may be able to influence and contribute to the entire industry with some innovative ideas. Let’s take a look at how information technology will continue to evolve in 2026. Contact us today for more information.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) And Information Technology

Artificial intelligence can process visual information for advancements in computer vision. Its technologies are used in more applications such as better facial recognition, self-driving cars, and medical image analysis. These advances make our lives and world more efficient and safer. Other evolving applications include:

• Video generation
• Personalized digital assistants
• Stronger security
• Overcoming voice-cloning scams
• Overcoming deepfakes

Companies are also using AI technology for predictive analytics, recommendation systems, process automation, diagnosing diseases, drug discovery, and business risk assessment. Financial institutions, education, agriculture, and manufacturing are also reaping the benefits of artificial intelligence.

Blockchain Will Expand In 2026

Blockchain technology will expand beyond cryptocurrencies and be used in applications such as data management, supply chain management, and financial systems. It is one of the most revolutionary technologies of the 21^st century. It is disrupting industries and transforming how the world shares information and money.

Blockchain has not reached its full evolutionary potential and performance. This technology is enabling new business models in some industries, including DeFi. Decentralized Finance (DeFi) is a financial system to manage transactions and aims to replace centralized institutions with peer-to-peer relationships. It is a viable way to move assets, make payments, trade securities, work with insurance, lend and borrow money, and modernize financial institutions’ infrastructure.

Cybersecurity And Information Technology��

Companies are using cybersecurity, AI, and machine learning to analyze patterns, detect anomalies, and automate responses to security incidents. Biometrics and other advanced authentication methods are also expected to become more common as cybersecurity evolves. ��

Cybersecurity is using more advanced data analysis capabilities for identifying and predicting cyber threats and enhancing early detection systems. ML algorithms are evolving to better recognize and respond to new threats and improve defensive activities over time.

Data Privacy Is Critical For Business And Personal Use

Data privacy is a critical problem worldwide with cybercrime on the rise. The good news is that 75% or more of the global population’s data is projected to be protected by local or national data privacy regulations during 2026.

More businesses will work to meet industry-specific compliance standards and invest in technology strategies to keep customer data safe. These evolving safety measures will help ensure the safety of sensitive data from external and internal threats.

Edge Computing And Information Technology

Edge computing will continue to evolve in 2026 and allow for real-time data processing, reduced latency, and more support for the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. Industry experts predict that by 202,8 organizations will create and process more than 50% of their data outside the centralized data center or cloud.

The North American computing market is witnessing significant growth in edge computing driven by the . Edge computing complements other types of information technology that enhance the business world.

3D Printing Is Expanding Exponentially

We can expect the use of 3D printing to increase in 2026, especially with the use of metal materials. This method of production technology can produce strong and durable parts that can withstand high temperatures and pressures. Its enhanced capabilities include:

• Faster print speeds
• Higher resolution
• Larger build volumes
• Improved printing stability

The new use of several materials in production activities, such as PLA filament and resins, is making a substantial impact by creating stronger products. Materials that are lightweight, durable, heat and chemical-resistant, and environmentally friendly are used more often. This wider range of applications enables more complex and intricate designs in the healthcare, aerospace, and automotive industries.

Information technology will continue to evolve in 2026 at an unprecedented rate that will benefit all of us. Get in on the action by earning an Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) Degree in Information Technology.

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