In 2024, expect a harmony of tech and privacy, fostering enhanced productivity through seamless cyber coexistence

In the fast-paced world of tech, we keep asking the same question: Will cyberattacks finally lead to stricter privacy laws? Turns out, it hasn’t happened yet. But now, in 2024, Chad Cardenas, the brains behind The Syndicate Group, suggests this year will draw new boundaries to rein in cyber abuse and prioritize online privacy.

Cardenas predicts a booming cybersecurity industry. Companies will keep upgrading their defenses against evolving cyber threats. His take? The channel ecosystem—those integrators and resellers—will step up, playing a crucial role in beefing up cyber defenses.

Joseph Carson, the security guru at Delinea, adds a twist. He believes emerging tech will shake up cybersecurity compliance. Brace yourself—more regulations are coming! Think GDPR and CCPA, but on a global scale. Privacy protection will get stricter, reaching organizations worldwide that handle personal data. Looks like 2024 won’t just be another year—it’ll redefine how we tackle cyber challenges and safeguard privacy.

The Difference Comes with AI

AI is becoming a big deal in cybersecurity, according to Darren Guccione, the CEO of Keeper Security. He thinks we might see privacy laws enforced faster this year, partly thanks to AI. But there’s a catch – while AI can help protect our privacy, it can also be used by cybercriminals to make sneakier attacks.

Guccione pointed out that AI has already changed how we approach cybersecurity. Companies are using AI and machine learning to beef up their digital defenses. But here’s the thing: cyber crooks are using AI too. They’re making better phishing scams, crafting nastier malware, and launching more attacks with AI’s help.

The Biden administration’s Executive Order from October 30, 2023, jumps into this AI conversation. It’s all about making sure the powerful AI systems developers create are safe and reliable. They’ll need to spill the beans to the U.S. government about safety tests and other important stuff. Plus, these AI systems will face rigorous testing before they hit the public to ensure they’re secure.

The order also talks about making standard tools and tests to keep tabs on new and existing AI systems. This will affect lots of organizations, no matter where they are in their AI journey or what kind of AI they’re using. Basically, the idea is to make sure AI behaves itself and doesn’t cause chaos in the digital world.

 Other Tech-Based Trends To Watch For

In navigating the challenging landscape ahead for tech startups in 2024, it’s crucial to anticipate and adapt to the changing funding dynamics and evolving vendor landscape. Here’s a tailored approach to thrive amidst these shifts:

1. Strategic Prioritization:
   • Identify and prioritize critical IT solutions that directly impact core operations like sales, marketing, or finance. Focus on these as your strategic platforms to maintain stability.
   • Distinguish between necessary tools and those that are optional. Assess their direct contribution to your business goals and consider phasing out non-essential ones.
2. Scrutinize AI Claims:
   • Don’t take vendors’ AI claims at face value. Dive deeper into understanding their AI models, the data they utilize, and how it’s managed. Verify whether their AI aligns with your needs and security standards.
   • Emphasize transparency and accountability in AI usage to ensure alignment with your company’s ethical guidelines and data privacy requirements.
3. Vendor Evaluation and Consolidation:
   • Conduct a comprehensive evaluation of existing vendors, considering their sustainability and potential risks. Prioritize partnerships with vendors offering additional services or functionalities that consolidate your IT ecosystem.
   • Aim for vendor consolidation where feasible. This streamlines operations, enhances cost-effectiveness, and strengthens the efficiency of your IT infrastructure.

Remember, adaptability and foresight will be key in 2024. As the funding environment shifts, being proactive in reassessing your IT strategies, prioritizing essential tools, and fostering robust vendor relationships will position your startup to weather the challenges and emerge stronger in the evolving tech landscape.