What to Expect in Cybersecurity Attacks and Issues for Q2 2025 and Beyond

As we move through the second quarter of 2025, the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Organizations and individuals alike must stay vigilant as attackers adapt their tactics and exploit new vulnerabilities. Here’s what you can expect in cybersecurity attacks and issues for Q2 2025 and beyond.

AI-Powered Attacks on the Rise

Artificial intelligence is now a double-edged sword. While defenders use AI to detect threats faster, attackers are leveraging generative AI to craft more convincing phishing emails, deepfake videos, and even automate the discovery of vulnerabilities. Expect to see more sophisticated spear-phishing campaigns and social engineering attacks that are harder to detect, as well as AI-driven malware that can adapt to evade traditional security tools.

Ransomware Evolves

Ransomware remains a top threat, but the tactics are shifting. Attackers are increasingly targeting cloud infrastructure and managed service providers, aiming for maximum disruption. Double and triple extortion schemes—where attackers not only encrypt data but also threaten to leak sensitive information or target customers—are becoming more common. Organizations should prepare for attacks that go beyond simple data encryption and involve complex negotiations and public relations challenges.

Supply Chain and Third-Party Risks

The interconnectedness of modern business means that a vulnerability in one supplier can quickly cascade through the entire supply chain. In Q2 2025, expect attackers to focus on third-party software and service providers, exploiting trust relationships to gain access to larger targets. Software supply chain attacks, like those seen in previous years, will likely increase, making vendor risk management and software bill of materials (SBOM) transparency more critical than ever.

IoT and OT Under Siege

With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the convergence of IT and operational technology (OT), attackers have more entry points than ever. Critical infrastructure—such as energy, water, and transportation—remains a high-value target. In 2025, we’re likely to see more attacks aimed at disrupting essential services, with attackers exploiting outdated or poorly secured devices.

Regulatory and Compliance Pressures

Governments worldwide are responding to the growing threat landscape with new regulations and reporting requirements. In Q2 2025, organizations will need to keep pace with evolving standards around data privacy, breach notification, and critical infrastructure protection. Non-compliance can result in hefty fines and reputational damage, so staying ahead of regulatory changes is essential.

What Can You Do?

To stay protected, organizations should double down on basics: regular patching, employee training, multi-factor authentication, and robust backup strategies. Investing in threat intelligence, zero trust architectures, and continuous monitoring will also help mitigate emerging risks. Most importantly, fostering a culture of security awareness across all levels of the organization is key to staying resilient in the face of evolving threats.

As we look ahead, the only certainty is change. By understanding the trends and preparing proactively, you can reduce your risk and respond effectively to whatever the rest of 2025 brings.