Cybersecurity threats continue to grow, posing significant risks to individuals, businesses, and even national security. Experts warn that hackers are no longer just targeting data centers or personal devices - they are now setting their sights on autonomous vehicles and unmanned drones.

To better understand these emerging cyber threats, VietNamNet spoke with Vu Ngoc Son, Chief Technology Officer at NCA (National Cybersecurity Association of Vietnam).

Three major cybersecurity threats in 2024

According to Vu Ngoc Son, the three biggest cyber threats this year will remain:

Advanced Persistent Threats (APT) - targeted cyberattacks on high-value organizations.

Ransomware 2.0 - where hackers not only encrypt but also steal and expose sensitive data.

IoT (Internet of Things) vulnerabilities - as more devices, including security cameras, smart locks, and home assistants, become connected to the internet.

He notes that APT attacks will continue to grow in sophistication, especially as businesses and governments store increasingly valuable digital assets. These attacks involve stealthy infiltration, long-term surveillance, and remote access via backdoors.

Meanwhile, ransomware has evolved. Instead of merely encrypting data, attackers now steal and threaten to leak sensitive information. With AI, hackers can now automate attacks and identify high-value targets faster than ever before.

As IoT devices become more common, hackers are shifting focus toward them. Security cameras, smart TVs, and even robotic vacuum cleaners - which collect vast amounts of data - are becoming vulnerable entry points.

New hacking targets: Self-driving cars and drones

Beyond these traditional attack methods, NCA experts predict that cybercriminals will soon focus on new targets: autonomous vehicles and drones.

According to Vu Ngoc Son, cybercriminal organizations are run like high-tech businesses, always researching new attack opportunities. While stealing data remains a profitable model, hackers are now exploring ways to exploit emerging technologies.

Self-driving cars and AI-powered drones are among the fastest-growing technologies. Their increasing adoption means that security vulnerabilities could have serious real-world consequences.

"Autonomous vehicles and drones are becoming more common, but security has not caught up," says Son. "Hackers could take control of these systems, causing financial losses, data breaches, or even public safety threats."

For example, a hacker could:

Remotely hijack a self-driving car, causing accidents or using it for criminal activities.

Disable navigation systems in drones used for deliveries or surveillance.

Manipulate traffic control systems that rely on AI-powered automation.

Industrial systems are also at risk

In addition to self-driving cars and drones, industrial control systems (ICS) are another major target.

Factories, energy grids, and transportation networks increasingly rely on automated control systems. Hackers, particularly state-sponsored cybercriminals, may exploit these systems to cause economic disruption or even national security threats.

“We are seeing more attacks on critical infrastructure, such as power grids, water supply systems, and manufacturing plants,” says Son. "Cybercriminals aim to disrupt or disable these operations."

How organizations can strengthen cybersecurity

With these growing risks, cybersecurity experts urge businesses and governments to invest in proactive security measures.

NCA recommends the following steps:

Regularly update software and security patches.

Implement advanced cybersecurity tools, including firewalls and endpoint detection & response (EDR) solutions.

Educate employees on cybersecurity threats like phishing, ransomware, and social engineering.

Conduct cybersecurity drills to simulate attacks and improve incident response.

Adopt AI-driven security solutions to detect anomalies and threats in real time.

Collaborate with cybersecurity organizations to share threat intelligence and best practices.

For businesses relying on autonomous vehicles, drones, or industrial automation, Son strongly advises working with specialized security firms. "These technologies are complex, and most companies lack the expertise to secure them properly," he warns.

Cyberattacks are evolving beyond traditional threats. Hackers are now exploring self-driving cars, drones, and industrial automation as new targets. If organizations fail to strengthen cybersecurity, they risk severe financial, operational, and safety consequences.

As technology advances, cybersecurity must keep pace - or the consequences could be catastrophic.

Van Anh