BeyondTrust Releases Cybersecurity Predictions for 2025 and Beyond

BeyondTrust, the global cybersecurity company, has released its annual forecast of cybersecurity trends for 2025 and beyond. Authored by BeyondTrust experts Morey J. Haber, Chief Security Advisor; Christopher Hills, Chief Security Strategist; James Maude, Field Chief Technology Officer; and Mike Machado, Chief Information Security Officer, the predictions highlight emerging threats and disruptive technologies that are set to reshape security strategies in the years ahead.

 Prediction 1: AI2 Bursts the Bubble 

AI2, or the “Artificial Inflation” of Artificial Intelligence, is expected to lose its hype across industries. While AI will remain useful for basic automation and workflows, many of the over-promised capabilities—especially in security—will fall short in 2025. The focus will shift toward practical AI applications that enhance security without overwhelming organizations with marketing noise.

 Prediction 2: Quantum Computing Threats Loom Large 

Quantum computing will pose significant challenges to existing cryptographic defenses, particularly for large enterprises. With the release of NIST’s post-quantum encryption standards in 2024, the transition will be gradual. Large organizations, especially in finance, must begin planning for this quantum shift to secure sensitive data.

 Prediction 3: Hidden Paths to Privilege Become the New Battleground 

In 2025, attackers will increasingly exploit obscure identity paths—complex trust relationships and hidden entitlements—that grant privileged access. These minor identity issues will evolve into significant security risks, requiring organizations to reassess their identity and access hygiene to avoid lateral movement and privilege escalation attacks.

 Prediction 4: Reverse Identity Theft Takes Center Stage 

Expect a rise in reverse identity theft, where stolen breach data is combined with additional personal information to create false digital identities. This will complicate identity security as organizations struggle to distinguish between legitimate and fraudulent personas.

 Prediction 5: Planned Obsolescence Forces Hardware Overhaul 

With Microsoft ending support for Windows 10 in late 2025, millions of systems will become obsolete. Many of these devices lack the hardware required to run Windows 11, prompting organizations to upgrade hardware or switch to alternative operating systems. This shift will expose outdated devices to a greater risk of cyberattacks.

 Prediction 6: Cyber Insurance Plays Catch-Up 

Cyber insurance providers will reassess their policies as AI and quantum computing introduce new risks. In 2025, expect carriers to revise terms to include exclusions related to AI and quantum threats, similar to traditional exclusions for acts of war. This will drive businesses to adopt new cyber-resilient practices to maintain coverage.

BeyondTrust experts also project long-term cybersecurity trends:

 Prediction 7: The End of Malware Dominance 

Malware will no longer be the primary threat vector as attackers increasingly target identity and access vulnerabilities. Organizations must focus on securing identities and limiting the damage caused by compromised accounts.

 Prediction 8: Satellite Connectivity Disrupts Traditional Networks 

Advancements in satellite connectivity will challenge traditional 5G and broadband networks. This shift will introduce new attack surfaces as satellite communication becomes a more widespread alternative, potentially opening new opportunities for cyberattacks.

“Looking ahead allows us to anticipate where cyber threat actors will move next, and being prepared for what lies ahead makes a huge difference in effective risk management,” said Morey Haber, Chief Security Advisor at BeyondTrust. “At BeyondTrust, we are committed to providing the best security solutions to address these emerging attack vectors and help our customers stay ahead of future threats.”