At Vision Computer Solutions, we know that cybersecurity isn’t just about protecting data—it’s about protecting your business, your reputation, and your clients. Several major events in 2018 made it clear that no organization is safe from cyber threats. From financial institutions to tech giants like Facebook, cybercrime dominated headlines. According to Forbes, 34% of U.S. consumers had their personal information compromised in 2018.
As we look ahead, business leaders and IT professionals are asking the same question: what should we expect in 2019? Below, we break down the top cybersecurity predictions for 2019—and what your business should be doing to prepare.
Tougher Regulations on the Horizon
Data is quickly becoming one of the most valuable commodities in the world. Governments across the globe are realizing the urgent need to protect citizens’ personal information, particularly as pressure from consumers grows.
In 2019, we can expect stricter regulations surrounding data privacy. Laws are likely to focus on protecting Internet of Things (IoT) devices, as well as establishing stronger cybersecurity standards to reflect the value of the information being safeguarded. Businesses should prepare now by strengthening compliance strategies and reviewing their security posture.
Stiffer Penalties for Non-Compliance
Passing new regulations is only part of the equation—enforcing them is another. The EU’s GDPR set the tone with harsh penalties for violations, and the California Consumer Privacy Act (effective in 2020) is following closely behind.
In 2019, penalties are expected to become even more severe. Companies such as British Airways, Facebook, and Google may face billion-dollar fines for mishandling data. One of the biggest cybersecurity predictions for 2019 is that governments will continue to use financial consequences as the primary enforcement tool to hold businesses accountable.
Data Breach Methods Will Stay Consistent
While new threats continue to emerge, many cybercriminals still rely on tried-and-true methods. In 2019, phishing emails, malicious links, and compromised user privileges will remain the most common tactics.
Organizations should focus on employee training, stronger access controls, and robust email monitoring. Proactive defenses are critical since these entry points remain the easiest for hackers to exploit.
Cyber Weapons Enter the Spotlight
For decades, nuclear warfare was viewed as the ultimate global security risk. Today, experts believe cyber warfare has overtaken it. Many governments have been quietly building digital arsenals, but in 2019, some of these capabilities are expected to become more visible.
As nations begin to reveal their cyber weapon capabilities, both as a deterrent and a defense mechanism, businesses may find themselves caught in the crossfire of politically motivated cyberattacks. Being prepared with a proactive cybersecurity strategy is one of the strongest defenses organizations can adopt.
IoT: A Double-Edged Sword
IoT devices—smart thermostats, autonomous vehicles, medical devices, and more—continue to change how we live and work. However, they also create new vulnerabilities. One of the more alarming cybersecurity predictions for 2019 is that hackers may use connected devices not just to steal data, but to cause real-world harm.
From interfering with self-driving cars to hijacking smart home systems, the risks are growing. Businesses deploying IoT should prioritize security at every stage, ensuring that convenience does not come at the cost of safety.
Multi-Layered Authentication Becomes Standard
Passwords alone are no longer enough. In 2019, expect multi-factor authentication (MFA) to become more common across email, social media, and business applications. As security expert Susan Bradley noted in CSO, relying solely on passwords leaves users highly vulnerable to phishing and credential theft.
While additional authentication steps may feel inconvenient, they significantly reduce risk. Fortunately, IT providers are working on more user-friendly and secure authentication solutions that balance protection with ease of use.
Final Thoughts: Preparing for 2019 and Beyond
Cyber threats aren’t slowing down—in fact, they’re evolving faster than most businesses can keep up. These cybersecurity predictions for 2019 highlight why having a proactive IT strategy is critical.
At Vision Computer Solutions, we help businesses across Metro Detroit stay ahead of the curve by aligning people, processes, and technology to defend against today’s most pressing cyber risks. From compliance support to multi-layered security solutions, we provide the tools and expertise to keep your organization protected—today and in the years to come.
👉 Ready to strengthen your cybersecurity strategy for 2019? Contact Vision Computer Solutions and let’s build a smarter, safer IT plan for your business.
Charles Lobert, has been in the Detroit Metro Area’s IT industry for over two decades & with VCS since ’04. Throughout the years, Lobert has held nearly every position at VCS & is responsible for several major organizational shifts within VCS.