Cybersecurity is a strong growth segment

Article Excerpt

Hackers, organized crime, and even state-sponsored groups are increasingly targeting the Internet-linked networks and databases of governments and businesses to gain access to confidential information and demand large ransom payments. The lucrative nature of online crime, combined with a relatively low risk of being caught, and a massive and growing target market, indicate that this criminal industry will continue its rapid growth. Meanwhile, companies that can provide effective protection against cybercrime will benefit from its expansion. The criminals have a large target market Attacks on individuals aim to steal personal and financial information, while corporations are targeted to obtain client records and business secrets. Critical infrastructure such as utilities and hospitals are also attacked to demand ransom payments. According to data provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the IMF, the estimated cost of cybercrime in 2023 amounted to a staggering $8 trillion—up from $1 trillion over each of the previous four years. Given the size of its economy, the U.S. remains the…