Symantec predicts cyberattacks to surge in 2016

Global cybersecurity firm Symantec has predicted that cyberattacks will surge in 2016 and it is encouraging companies to plan and prepare for imminent danger.

The company foresees an evolution in ransomware methods, more advanced and persistent attacks and increased targeting of critical infrastructure, it revealed during a presentation at the firm's Mexico City headquarters.

According to Juan Avila, Symantec's director of technology for Mexico and Colombia, Internet of Things (IoT) devices are expected to see an increase in attacks, particularly in the health sector.

Alvia predicts that Apple devices will present more opportunities for cybercriminals this year. He also expects to see an evolution of malware distribution techniques and growth in vulnerabilities in video games and simulators.

"Today's cybercriminals are better prepared, have more resources and are sometimes financed by organized crime syndicates or states. They have more patience and persistence to succeed in their attacks, meaning that their cybercrime efforts have become big business," Avila said.

Symantec's predictions for 2016 mirror the IT security trends of last year, also adding weight to the unique opportunity for Latin American telcos to offer Security-as-a-Service.

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