The days of hoping a good firewall and strong passwords will keep attackers at bay are long gone. As we approach 2025, cyber threats are not only growing in number but becoming smarter and harder to predict. For large enterprises, the question is no longer if an attack will happen but when—and how well you can keep it from spiraling out of control.

Threat containment is the art (and increasingly the science) of isolating and neutralizing cyber threats before they cause widespread damage. Whether it’s halting a ransomware attack before it spreads across your network or isolating a rogue IoT device that’s been hijacked, effective containment strategies can mean the difference between a manageable incident and a full-blown crisis.

Let’s explore some of the top strategies enterprises should embrace to contain threats in the fast-evolving cybersecurity landscape of 2025.

Top Threat Containment Areas of Focus for 2025

1. Strengthening Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR)

Endpoints—whether laptops, smartphones, or IoT devices—remain among the weakest links in an enterprise’s security perimeter. Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems have become vital tools for detecting and containing threats at the device level.

In 2025, the focus will shift to:

• Automated remediation: Modern EDR solutions can isolate an infected endpoint immediately, cutting it off from the network to prevent lateral movement.
• Extended Detection and Response (XDR): Integrating endpoint security with telemetry from email, network traffic, and cloud environments for better threat visibility and faster containment.

2. Investing in AI-Driven Threat Intelligence

Artificial intelligence and machine learning are transforming cybersecurity by providing faster, more accurate insights into potential threats. AI-driven threat intelligence tools can sift through massive amounts of data to identify patterns and anomalies, empowering enterprises to act proactively.

For threat containment, AI-driven solutions help:

• Predict attack vectors: Understand and anticipate how attackers might pivot after an initial breach.
• Automate containment measures: Trigger quarantines for specific devices or users based on predefined criteria.
• Reduce dwell time: Rapidly identify and neutralize threats before they spread.

3. Implementing Network Segmentation

Network segmentation involves dividing an enterprise’s IT infrastructure into smaller, isolated segments. This strategy ensures that a breach in one part of the network doesn’t immediately compromise the entire organization.

For 2025, enterprises should:

• Use software-defined segmentation: Leverage tools that create virtual segments dynamically, making it harder for attackers to navigate.
• Integrate NAC solutions: Network Access Control (NAC) ensures only authorized devices can communicate within each segment.
• Pair with micro-segmentation: Apply granular controls within segments to further limit potential pathways for attackers.

4. Enhancing Incident Response Plans

An incident response (IR) plan is essential for effective threat containment, and 2025 calls for a refresh to reflect modern attack methods. Enterprises should focus on:

• Tabletop exercises: Regularly simulate breaches to test the efficiency of containment measures and improve cross-team coordination.
• Playbooks for automated containment: Predefined response scripts can automate threat isolation, such as blocking a malicious IP or disabling compromised accounts.
• Post-incident analytics: Utilize insights from past incidents to fine-tune response strategies and close security gaps.

5. Focusing on Secure IoT Management

With IoT devices proliferating across industries, securing these endpoints has become a critical challenge. Many IoT devices lack robust security features, making them easy targets for attackers seeking entry points into enterprise networks.

To contain threats originating from IoT devices:

• Enforce IoT-specific NAC policies: Ensure that IoT devices can only access designated network segments.
• Conduct regular firmware updates: Patch vulnerabilities to reduce attack vectors.
• Implement anomaly detection: Monitor IoT behavior for deviations that could indicate compromise.

6. Leveraging Cloud-Native Security

As enterprises continue to migrate workloads to the cloud, containing threats in hybrid and multi-cloud environments becomes increasingly complex. Cloud-native security solutions provide flexibility and scalability to manage threats across diverse environments.

Key strategies include:

• Cloud workload protection platforms (CWPP): Secure workloads with automated scanning and threat remediation.
• Cloud Security Posture Management (CSPM): Continuously assess and rectify misconfigurations that could lead to breaches.
• Identity and Access Management (IAM): Enforce least privilege principles and conditional access in cloud environments.

7. Utilizing Deception Technology

Deception technology deploys traps and decoys within the network to lure attackers away from valuable assets. By wasting an attacker’s time and resources, these tools give security teams the upper hand.

In 2025, expect to see:

• Integrated deception solutions: Combined with EDR and SIEM systems, deception tools can automatically trigger containment measures when triggered.
• Dynamic decoys: Deploying decoys that adapt based on the attacker’s tactics.

8. Prioritizing Human-Centric Security

While technology plays a critical role in threat containment, human error remains a significant vulnerability. Training employees to recognize and respond to threats effectively is crucial.

Enterprises should:

• Run phishing simulations: Test employee awareness and improve response times.
• Promote a security-first culture: Ensure employees understand their role in minimizing risks and containing threats.
• Empower incident reporting: Create an environment where employees can report potential threats without fear of reprisal.

The Road Ahead for Threat Containment Success

Threat containment is a critical pillar of a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy, especially as the sophistication of cyberattacks continues to grow. For large enterprises, implementing these strategies not only minimizes potential damage but also ensures a resilient security posture. In 2025, success will depend on combining cutting-edge technology with proactive planning and robust human collaboration. By staying ahead of the curve, enterprises can turn threat containment from a reactive response into a strategic advantage.

Cybersecurity is a never-ending game of cat and mouse, with organizations perpetually hunting down vulnerabilities before bad actors can exploit them. For CISOs, crafting an effective vulnerability management strategy is less about chasing every single threat and more about prioritizing risks that pose the greatest danger to business operations.

A well-structured vulnerability management strategy isn’t just about patching software—it’s a systematic approach that encompasses identification, prioritization, remediation, and continuous monitoring. And, if done right, it integrates with broader security measures, including Network Access Control (NAC), to create a more robust defense posture.

Step 1: Establish a Clear Vulnerability Management Framework

Before diving into tools and tactics, CISOs must establish a framework that outlines how their organization will approach vulnerability management. This framework should include:

• Asset Inventory: Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all endpoints, applications, cloud resources, and IoT devices connected to the network.
• Threat Intelligence: Leverage external threat feeds, industry reports, and vulnerability databases (e.g., NVD, CVE) to understand emerging threats.
• Risk Assessment Criteria: Define how vulnerabilities will be assessed—based on CVSS scores, exploitability, business impact, and compliance implications.
• Defined Roles & Responsibilities: Ensure security teams, IT staff, and compliance officers know their responsibilities in the vulnerability management lifecycle.

By establishing a solid foundation, CISOs can create a repeatable process that adapts to evolving threats.

Step 2: Automate Vulnerability Discovery & Assessment

Given the scale of modern enterprise networks, manual vulnerability scanning is inefficient. Instead, CISOs should deploy automated vulnerability management solutions that continuously scan for weaknesses across all IT assets.

• Regular Scanning & Penetration Testing: Use automated vulnerability scanners like Qualys, Tenable, or Rapid7 to detect misconfigurations and security flaws.
• NAC-Enabled Device Posture Checks: A Network Access Control (NAC) solution can assess whether a device meets security compliance before granting access. If a device has outdated software or missing patches, NAC can block or quarantine it until remediation occurs.
• Cloud & Endpoint Protection: Ensure vulnerability scanning extends beyond traditional endpoints to include cloud workloads, mobile devices, and remote endpoints.

Automating vulnerability discovery reduces the likelihood of security gaps going unnoticed and ensures that vulnerabilities are addressed before they can be exploited.

Step 3: Prioritize and Remediate Based on Business Risk

Not all vulnerabilities are created equal. Some may be low-risk while others could lead to catastrophic data breaches. A successful strategy hinges on risk-based prioritization.

• Contextual Risk Assessment: Instead of treating every CVE as a crisis, focus on vulnerabilities that are actively being exploited or that affect business-critical applications.
• Patch Management & Exception Handling: Develop an efficient patching cadence for critical vulnerabilities while allowing exceptions for legacy systems that may require alternative mitigations.
• Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) & NAC Integration: By integrating NAC and ZTNA, organizations can limit the blast radius of an exploit by segmenting vulnerable or non-compliant devices into restricted zones until patches are applied.

Step 4: Implement Continuous Monitoring & Incident Response

Even with the best proactive strategies, vulnerabilities will still emerge. That’s why continuous monitoring and incident response must be core components of vulnerability management.

• Security Information & Event Management (SIEM): Use SIEM platforms to correlate vulnerability data with threat intelligence and detect signs of active exploitation.
• Endpoint Detection & Response (EDR): Deploy EDR solutions to monitor suspicious behavior that could indicate an attacker exploiting an unpatched vulnerability.
• NAC for Threat Containment: If an endpoint is compromised due to an unpatched vulnerability, NAC can dynamically isolate it from the network, preventing lateral movement and reducing the risk of further compromise.

Continuous monitoring ensures that vulnerabilities aren’t just identified but are also actively managed throughout their lifecycle.

Step 5: Enforce Security Policies & Educate Employees

Security isn’t just a technology problem—it’s a human one too. CISOs must implement policies that enforce security best practices across the organization.

• Device Compliance Policies: Use NAC to enforce security baselines such as endpoint encryption, antivirus software, and mandatory patch levels before granting network access.
• Employee Awareness Programs: Regularly educate employees on security hygiene, social engineering risks, and the importance of timely software updates.
• Third-Party & Supply Chain Security: Extend vulnerability management policies to vendors and partners who have network access.

By fostering a culture of security awareness and enforcing policies with NAC, CISOs can significantly reduce an organization’s attack surface.

Conclusion: NAC as a Force Multiplier for Vulnerability Management

A well-crafted vulnerability management strategy is about more than just scanning and patching—it’s about proactive risk reduction and continuous security enforcement. Network Access Control (NAC) plays a crucial role in enforcing compliance, segmenting risky devices, and mitigating the impact of exploited vulnerabilities.

By integrating NAC into their vulnerability management strategy, CISOs can ensure that only secure, compliant devices access the network, ultimately reducing exposure to cyber threats and improving overall security resilience.

In today’s threat landscape, vulnerability management is not optional—it’s essential. But with the right framework, automation, risk prioritization, and security controls like NAC, CISOs can transform vulnerability management from a reactive task into a proactive, strategic advantage.

Portnox Cloud closes 2024 with another award win for innovation in zero trust and access control.

Austin, TX – Dec. 19, 2024—Portnox, a leading provider of cloud-native, zero trust access control solutions, today announced that TMC has named Portnox Cloud a recipient of the 2024 IT Cyber Security Excellence Award.

TMC announced the 2024 winners in a press release on its website last week. According to TMC, this award highlights not only the technologies used but also best practices for successfully deploying cybersecurity solutions.

Network access control solutions often face criticism for being difficult to deploy, complex to manage, and expensive to maintain. Portnox Cloud addresses these issues as a cost-effective unified access control (UAC) solution that delivers passwordless authentication, access control, risk mitigation, and compliance enforcement for enterprise networks, applications and infrastructure. Additionally, as a fully cloud-native platform, Portnox Cloud eliminates the need for costly on-site appliances and on-going systems maintenance.

“Receiving the 2024 IT Cybersecurity Excellence Award from TMC is a proud moment for the entire Portnox team,” said Denny LeCompte, CEO of Portnox. “Portnox Cloud exemplifies our commitment to pioneering innovations that address the evolving access control and cybersecurity challenges across today’s dynamic IT environments while ensuring a seamless user experience for our customers.”

“Congratulations to Portnox for being honored with an INTERNET TELEPHONY Cybersecurity Excellence Award for innovation in IP communications,” stated Rich Tehrani, CEO, TMC. “The Portnox Cloud has demonstrated outstanding quality and has delivered exceptional, measurable, tangible results for its users. Not only do I look forward to seeing their future successes, I thank them for protecting their clients from crippling attacks.”

For a while, it seemed like drones were everywhere – you couldn’t spend a day at a park or go to an outdoor event without hearing the familiar whir of propellors starting up and buzzing over the crowd. Cool concert footage not withstanding, drone operators have often faced some contention with their right to fly, particularly with some notable incidents like the time a drone crashed into a bike race, causing one cyclist to crash (thankfully with only minor injuries,) or the time a drone operator buzzed a police helicopter during a manhunt.  Then the FAA stepped in, and there was less danger of a drone colliding with a commercial airliner.  However, there are still concerns about drones just falling from the sky and knocking you unconscious.

Despite all the concerns that led to regulations on where and how to fly drones, one thing that was not addressed was the concerns about drone security. Not the drones themselves being hacked—although that is actually upsettingly easy—but about using them to infiltrate networks.  

Enter the threat from above

As reported in The Register, it started with unusual activity on an internally hosted confluence page. When security personnel spotted this, they traced it to a MAC address on their corporate WiFi….that happened to match one logged in on a network several miles away. After verifying that the user was, in fact, working from home, they used a WiFi signal tracer to follow the signal this device was attached to….and it led them to the roof.

There, much to their surprise, they discovered a pair of drones.

One of them had a WiFi Pineapple.  Unlike the delicious fruit, this is a device used by security testers to test WiFi networks for weak spots.  Unfortunately, it’s also very useful to hackers who want to use it as a rogue access point.  Apparently, this particular drone had made a prior visit, during which it discovered a temporary, less-than-secure Wifi network that it was able to snoop on to get an employee’s credentials and MAC address.  Then, a couple of days later, it came back with a friend that had almost $15,000 of spying and hacking equipment with it – including a Raspberry Pi, a 4G modem, a laptop, and several extra battery packs.  The credentials the first drone had stolen a few days earlier were hard-coded into all of these tools.  

Thanks to their exceptionally vigilant security team, the attackers did not get much, including their drones back. 

Are the drones coming for all of us?

Realistically, probably not….this wasn’t a cheap endeavor, nor was it simple to plan and execute.  All told, the hackers spent a lot of money and put a lot of time and effort into this operation.  With the amount of customization, research, and lucky timing, it’s unlikely that this could be easily replicated.  The fact that the target of this hack was an unnamed financial institution suggests that it was only worth it to the hackers for the potential of an exceptionally large payout. Of course, this isn’t to say it couldn’t happen, but it’s not likely that armies of drones will be filling the skies to perch on the roof of your building and spoof your WifFi network any time soon.

What you SHOULD be worried about is that hackers rarely have to go to this much trouble to breach your network. When you look at other high-profile breaches like Okta and Cisco, the hackers simply had to gain access to an employee’s Gmail account. When Target was breached in 2013, it was via malware installed on an HVAC contractor’s laptop (not even an actual Target employee!). The sad truth is, with 81% of all data breaches caused by stolen, weak, or re-used passwords, hackers don’t have to put that much effort into getting access to your network.  

The lesson here is not that this happened, but that good security will protect you no matter where the threat comes from. Thanks to the vigilant efforts of the security team who noticed the odd activity right away, it didn’t happen – ultimately, the hackers didn’t really get anything of value.

Introduction to Cyber Monday Hazards

With the rise of digital commerce, Cyber Monday has become a focal point for online shopping, attracting consumers with unbeatable deals and offers. Unfortunately, this surge in online activity also draws the attention of cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities in e-commerce platforms. Among the myriad threats, malware skimmers stand out as particularly dangerous. These malicious programs stealthily capture sensitive payment information, such as credit card numbers and personal details, during online transactions. As cybercriminals become increasingly sophisticated, the threat landscape evolves, making it imperative for both consumers and businesses to understand the nature of these risks. The stakes are high, and the need for robust cybersecurity measures has never been greater.

Comprehending Malware Skimmers

Malware skimmers are sophisticated threats designed to surreptitiously capture payment details during online transactions. These malicious programs are typically injected into e-commerce websites, lying dormant until users enter their payment information. Upon capturing sensitive data, such as credit card numbers and personal details, the skimmers transmit this information to cybercriminals. This threat is especially concerning as it often goes undetected by both consumers and website operators. The methods employed by these skimmers include exploiting vulnerabilities in website code or compromising third-party plugins. Understanding how these malicious entities operate is crucial for developing effective countermeasures and ensuring a safer online shopping experience.

Recent Developments in Malware Skimming

Cybercriminals have increasingly refined their techniques in recent years, making malware skimmers more sophisticated and harder to detect. Notable incidents have impacted major companies, showcasing the persistent threat these skimmers pose to the e-commerce sector. A significant rise in malvertising incidents has been observed, particularly in the United States, which saw a 42% increase month-over-month last fall. Similarly, an uptick of 41% was observed from July to September this year. These statistics underscore the growing menace of malware skimmers. The ongoing evolution of these malicious programs necessitates a heightened level of vigilance and a proactive approach to cybersecurity. Advanced skimming techniques now exploit vulnerabilities in website code and third-party plugins with greater efficiency, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and updating of security protocols. As cybercriminals adapt, so must our strategies to counteract these evolving threats.

Safeguarding Your Personal Data

Proactively defending your personal data requires a multi-layered approach. Begin by cultivating a habit of using strong, unique passwords for every online account. Incorporate a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols to enhance complexity. Implement two-factor authentication wherever possible, adding an additional safeguard that requires a second form of verification before granting access. Regularly update all devices and software to protect against the latest threats. Utilize reputable antivirus and anti-malware programs to scan for potential vulnerabilities. Be cautious about sharing personal information and only provide details to trusted sites. Employing a secure VPN can also add a layer of protection when accessing the internet from public networks.

Secure Online Shopping Habits

Maintaining secure online shopping habits is vital in defending against malware skimmers. Begin by verifying that the websites you shop on are reputable and use robust encryption protocols, typically indicated by a padlock symbol in the address bar. Always ensure that your devices, browsers, and security software are current, as updates often include patches for vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malware skimmers. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for transactions, as these networks are often less secure and can be easily exploited by cybercriminals. Utilize a secure VPN when accessing the internet from public places to add an extra layer of security. Be cautious with emails and links, as phishing attempts can lead to malicious websites designed to steal your information. It’s also prudent to use credit cards instead of debit cards for online purchases, as credit cards generally offer better fraud protection. Taking these steps will significantly bolster your defenses against the ever-evolving threat of malware skimmers, ensuring a safer and more secure online shopping experience.

Identifying Indicators of a Compromised Website

Identifying indicators of a compromised website is essential for steering clear of potential threats. Be wary of unexpected pop-ups or intrusive advertisements, which may signify a breach. Unusual URLs, particularly those with misspellings or extra characters, can also be red flags. Observe the website’s layout and functionality; inconsistencies or slow loading times might indicate malicious interference. Hover over links to preview their destinations and ensure they align with legitimate domains. Browser security warnings should never be ignored, as they often provide critical alerts about potential risks. Additionally, the absence of HTTPS encryption, usually indicated by a padlock symbol in the address bar, can point to inadequate security measures.

Reacting to a Cybersecurity Threat

Upon suspecting a cybersecurity breach, swift and decisive action is crucial to mitigate damage. Initially, contact your financial institutions to inform them of potential fraudulent activity. They can assist in freezing accounts, issuing new cards, and monitoring for suspicious transactions. Additionally, change your passwords for any affected accounts, ensuring they are strong and unique to prevent further unauthorized access.

Next, report the incident to relevant authorities, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your local cybersecurity agency. Providing detailed information about the breach can aid in broader efforts to combat cybercrime. It is also advisable to alert the affected e-commerce platform so they can investigate and address any vulnerabilities.

In parallel, conduct a thorough scan of your devices using reputable antivirus and anti-malware software to detect and eliminate any lingering threats. Regularly updating your security tools ensures they are equipped to identify the latest malware variants.

Consider placing fraud alerts or credit freezes on your credit reports through major credit bureaus. This adds an extra layer of protection, making it more challenging for cybercriminals to open new accounts in your name.

Educate yourself and stay informed about common cyber threats and preventative measures. Being proactive and knowledgeable can significantly reduce your risk of future incidents. Engage with cybersecurity communities and forums to share experiences and learn from others.

Finally, evaluate and strengthen your overall cybersecurity posture. Implementing multi-factor authentication, using a secure VPN, and maintaining vigilant online practices can fortify your defenses against evolving threats. By taking comprehensive and immediate steps, you can safeguard your personal information and contribute to a more secure digital environment.

Remaining Vigilant in an Increasingly Digital Society

Cyber Monday offers unparalleled opportunities for online shopping but also exposes consumers and businesses to the hidden dangers of malware skimmers. These stealthy threats underscore the importance of vigilance, robust cybersecurity measures, and secure online practices. By recognizing the evolving tactics of cybercriminals and adopting proactive defenses—such as strong passwords, two-factor authentication, secure VPN usage, and careful scrutiny of websites—individuals can protect their sensitive information during transactions.

For businesses, maintaining up-to-date security protocols, monitoring for vulnerabilities, and educating customers about safe practices are vital steps in minimizing risk. The growing sophistication of malware skimmers requires a collective effort to enhance cybersecurity awareness and resilience. By staying informed and prepared, we can outpace cybercriminals and ensure that the benefits of digital commerce continue to outweigh the risks.