AS cyberattacks become more complex and persistent, it is getting harder for organizations around Asia-Pacific (APAC) to stay ahead of today’s rapidly evolving digital world. At a press conference, global cybersecurity provider Palo Alto Networks shared its 2025 projections to assist businesses in overcoming these obstacles. The findings highlight the critical role of artificial intelligence, the growing danger of deepfakes, and the pressing need for cohesive and strong security measures. How prepared is your company for the future?
As businesses in the APAC region continue embedding AI into their operations, cybercriminals and adversaries are engaging in an AI arms race. Despite this, a recent PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) report reveals that over 40 percent of leaders need to fully understand the cyber risks posed by technologies like generative AI.
Simon Green, president of Asia-Pacific and Japan at Palo Alto Networks, emphasized that “2025 will present a perfect storm of AI-driven threats, requiring organizations to pivot to unified platforms powered by transparent and trustworthy AI.” He warned that failure to adapt will leave businesses vulnerable to breaches and reputational damage.
Key predictions for 2025
Single unified data security platform
Organizations are expected to shift from fragmented security tools to unified platforms, addressing challenges such as cyber skills shortages and complex threat landscapes. These platforms will provide comprehensive visibility and context across networks, cloud workloads, and security operations centers (SOCs). Integrating all security layers will enhance efficiency, improve defenses, and support real-time threat prevention.
Deepfakes go mainstream in APAC
Deepfake technology will become a mainstream tool for scams and deception. Criminals will increasingly leverage generative AI to create highly convincing audio and video deepfakes, targeting organizations for financial gain. Deepfake attacks, such as the case of a Hong Kong engineering firm duped into transferring funds using a video mimicking its chief financial officer (CFO), showcase the growing sophistication of these scams. Businesses face serious dangers as the use of deepfake audio to mimic leaders is predicted to increase.
Beyond the Quantum security hype
With advances in quantum computing, nation-state actors are intensifying efforts to harvest and store encrypted data in anticipation of future decryption capabilities. To safeguard sensitive data, organizations must adopt quantum-resistant measures, including advanced cryptographic algorithms and quantum key distribution. While military-grade encryption remains secure, taking proactive steps now is essential to protect against future quantum threats.
Transparency: cornerstone for maintaining customer trust
Transparency regarding AI models, data usage and decision-making processes will be essential for building customer trust and fostering responsible innovation. To promote responsible innovation, regulators around Asia-Pacific are putting more emphasis on data security and AI ethics. Organizations will need to provide clarity on their AI operations to maintain trust and comply with evolving regulatory frameworks.
Focus on product integrity, supply chain security
Real-time visibility and resilience in supply chains will become priorities as organizations face increasing risks in cloud environments. Comprehensive monitoring and thorough risk assessments will help mitigate outages and ensure accountability. Legal and insurance considerations will also play a growing role in shaping supply chain strategies.
Oscar Visaya, country manager for the Philippines, highlighted the relevance of these predictions to local organizations, pointing to the country’s recent rise in the UN Global Cybersecurity Index from 61st to 53rd. He noted the critical need for unified security platforms and AI-driven advancements in combating threats like deepfakes and cyberattacks fueled by rapid digitalization. He added, “Prioritizing these trends will be crucial to securing the Philippines’ digital future.”
Addressing emerging challenges
The importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in thwarting the pace, scope and sophistication of contemporary cyberthreats was further discussed by Palo Alto Networks at the media briefing. The business unveiled “Precision AI,” a trademarked technology that uses generative AI, machine learning, and deep learning to enable automatic, real-time threat identification. The platform collects over 7.6 petabytes of data daily to proactively identify patterns and mitigate risks. Emphasizing automation addresses the shortage of cybersecurity professionals while reducing human error.
Highlighted are the rise of AI-driven scams, such as deepfakes, and their implications for elections and corporate security. Palo Alto Networks emphasized the importance of educating consumers and collaborating with telcos to extend protective measures. Initiatives like Cyber Safe Kids and university partnerships aim to build cybersecurity awareness across all age groups.
As the cybersecurity landscape evolves, avoiding emerging threats requires collaboration, innovation and a commitment to robust solutions. Palo Alto Networks’ insights offer a clear roadmap to guide organizations in safeguarding their digital future in 2025 and beyond.
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