BT has disclosed that it detects over 2,000 potential cyberattacks per second, totaling more than 200 million threats daily, as it works to protect critical global networks. This statistic underscores the growing urgency related to cybersecurity concerns.
According to recent data, web-connected devices are subject to more than 1,000 scans daily by recognized malicious entities, which occurs approximately every 90 seconds. While only a small fraction of these scans are legitimate, nearly 80% are not, indicating persistent efforts by hackers to exploit weaknesses in digital systems crucial to businesses and public services.
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The report highlighted a dramatic 1,234% surge in new malicious IP scanners detected across BT’s networks over the past year, up to July. This sharp increase reflects the rising use of automated, disposable bots by cybercriminals to avoid detection and enhance their attacks.
BT’s analysis indicates that traditional sectors such as IT, defense, and financial services continue to be the most frequent targets of cyberattacks. However, industries that have historically been less focused on cybersecurity, including retail, education, and hospitality, are increasingly facing threats.
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and cloud technologies is not only transforming global business operations but also introducing new vulnerabilities.
The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has cautioned that AI is likely to significantly amplify both the frequency and severity of cyberattacks in the near future. Cybercriminals are leveraging AI to execute more advanced attacks; global ransomware threats are anticipated to escalate as a result.
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BT’s research indicates that UK businesses are expected to boost their technology investments by 31% in 2024. However, many of these companies are enhancing their systems and adding more connected devices without implementing a thorough cybersecurity strategy, leaving them exposed to potential attacks.
“Today, every business is a digital business, and our data shows that every 90 seconds, hackers are checking connected devices to find a way in—like opportunistic burglars looking for an open window. Tools like AI provide new routes of attack, but they can also be the first line of defense. At BT, we’re constantly evolving our network security to stay one step ahead and protect more than a million businesses, day in, day out,” said Tris Morgan, Managing Director of Security at BT.
