As we step into 2025, the cybersecurity landscape remains as volatile as ever. The European Union Agency for Cybersecurity (ENISA) has released its 12th edition of the Threat Landscape report, highlighting eight prime threats expected to dominate this year. Understanding these threats—and the skills needed to combat them—is essential for anyone in cybersecurity. 

1. Ransomware

Ransomware continues to be one of the most pressing concerns. Attackers hold systems hostage and demand ransoms in exchange for access or to prevent data exposure. This growing threat demands cybersecurity professionals with advanced skills in incident response, threat detection, and network defense. It’s crucial to stay ahead with knowledge of evolving ransomware tactics and defenses. 

2. Malware

Malware remains a significant threat, with malicious software wreaking havoc on systems globally. From trojans to worms, knowing how to detect, isolate, and neutralize malware is key for cybersecurity specialists. Understanding how malware interacts with systems and applying the latest defensive technologies is critical for effective mitigation. Check out Cyber Skills microcredential “Malware Reverse Engineering” if you are interested in learning the skills and toolsets required for in-depth investigations of modern malware and understanding its malicious impacts. 

3. Social Engineering

Human error is often the weakest link in security. Social engineering, including phishing and spear-phishing, exploits this vulnerability. As attackers refine their tactics, professionals must master social engineering prevention methods, emphasizing awareness and training across organizations to reduce risk. 80% of cyber breaches are due to employees within the company, it is vital to educate your team and protect your business. 

4. Data Breaches

With increasing regulations like GDPR, safeguarding sensitive data is a top priority. Data breaches can have significant legal and reputational consequences. Cybersecurity professionals need to hone skills in data protection, encryption, and vulnerability management to prevent unauthorized access and leaks. Cyber Skills’ microcredential “Cybersecurity Standards & Risk” teaches students about management of risks related to the use, processing, storage and transmission of data. Educate yourself and your employees on laws, regulations, controls, compliance and violations related to personal information and data protection. 

5. DDoS Attacks

Although Denial-of-Service (DoS) and Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks are not new, their impact remains significant. DDoS attacks aim to overwhelm a system’s resources, causing service disruptions. Defenders must be skilled in traffic monitoring, anomaly detection, and response strategies to mitigate these attacks before they cause substantial damage. 

6. Information Manipulation

Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) can undermine political and social systems, threatening democracy and stability. Cybersecurity professionals should stay aware of this emerging trend, developing skills in detecting misinformation, countering disinformation campaigns and protecting systems from manipulation. 

7. Advanced Evasion Techniques

As cybercriminals become more sophisticated, they are utilizing "Living Off the Land" (LOTL) tactics, blending their malicious activities into legitimate environments to avoid detection. Cybersecurity teams must sharpen their skills in threat hunting, monitoring for abnormal behavior, and understanding complex evasion tactics to uncover hidden threats. 

8. Geopolitical Cyber Attacks

Geopolitical tensions are increasingly driving cyberattacks, with nation-states and their proxies engaging in malicious cyber activities. Cybersecurity experts must develop a keen understanding of the geopolitical landscape, applying threat intelligence to predict and defend against state-sponsored cyber threats. 

The Need for Cyber Skills in 2025 

The threats identified in ENISA’s 2024 report underscore the need for highly specialized cybersecurity skills in 2025. From malware analysis and threat detection to crisis management and geopolitical awareness, professionals must stay agile, continually learning to meet new challenges. Organizations must invest in building a workforce equipped with the skills necessary to defend against these evolving threats. 

In the face of these emerging challenges, the demand for cyber talent will only increase. By fostering a deep understanding of these threats and continuously enhancing your cyber skills, you can contribute to a more resilient and secure digital world. Cyber Skills courses help to upskill and reskill professionals in these critically needed skills.