Hey there, it’s Peter.
If you’ve been feeling like cyber threats are evolving faster than you can keep up—you’re not wrong. WatchGuard just dropped their Q1 2025 Internet Security Report, and the numbers are jaw-dropping.
Let’s break it down in plain English.
📈 What’s Going On?
- 712% increase in new, unique endpoint malware variants
That’s not a typo. Attackers aren’t just recycling old viruses—they’re creating stealthy, evasive malware that slips past traditional defenses. - 171% surge in network-based malware
This spike is largely driven by AI-powered detection tools like IntelligentAV, which are catching threats that older systems miss. - 87% of encrypted malware is now zero-day
That means it’s brand new, never-before-seen malware that signature-based tools can’t recognize.
🧠 Why It Matters
Cybercriminals are getting smarter—and faster—thanks to underground AI tools that help them build and launch malware at scale. They’re not just locking up your files with ransomware anymore. They’re stealing data, hiding in encrypted traffic, and using your browser or even pirated software to sneak in.
And here’s the kicker: 71% of all malware now arrives over encrypted connections. If your firewall isn’t doing deep packet inspection, you’re flying blind.
🔐 What You Can Do
If you’re a business owner or GM juggling compliance, contracts, and IT headaches, here’s what I recommend:
- Layer your defenses
Don’t rely on antivirus alone. You need endpoint protection, network monitoring, and behavioral analysis. - Inspect encrypted traffic
Make sure your firewall or UTM device can see inside TLS/SSL traffic. - Update and patch everything
Old vulnerabilities like ProxyLogon are still being exploited. Don’t give attackers an easy way in. - Work with a compliance-savvy MSP
You don’t have to do this alone. A good MSP can help you stay ahead of threats and audits.
🎁 Free Risk Assessment & Dark Web Scan (San Diego County Only)
If you’re in San Diego County, Noble Technology Group is offering a free cybersecurity risk assessment and dark web scan through the end of July.
This is a no-strings-attached way to:
- Discover if your business credentials are exposed on the dark web
- Identify gaps in your current cybersecurity posture
- Get a clear, jargon-free roadmap to improve your defenses
👉 https://go.appointmentcore.com/FreeRiskAssessment
🧭 Final Thought
This isn’t about fear—it’s about being prepared. The threat landscape is changing, but so are the tools we have to fight back. If you’re ready to take a smarter, more proactive approach to cybersecurity, let’s talk.
Stay safe out there,
Peter
