Protecting sensitive information has never been more critical, especially in today’s AI-driven world. As businesses increasingly leverage AI and advanced analytics, safeguarding Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and Patient Health Information (PHI) is paramount. Data masking has become a cornerstone strategy, allowing organizations to securely manage and analyze data while significantly reducing the risks of exposure and misuse.

Since the late 1990s, millions have relied on the Internet for searching, communicating, shopping, and working, though 2.6 billion people (about 31% of the global population) still lack Internet access. Over the years, use of the Internet has evolved from email and static sites to social media, streaming, e-commerce, cloud tools, and more recently AI chatbots, reflecting its constant adaptation to users' needs.

Companies may scale their cloud resources in pursuit of product, cost, or process innovation. However, this does not come without a cost of its own. The resulting infrastructure complexity, created from a growing sprawl of access silos, can introduce friction into engineer and security workflows.

It’s that time again— we’re saying goodbye to 2024 and looking ahead to what the new year may bring. From AI-driven attacks and the rise of deepfakes to the growing vulnerabilities in collaboration tools, the cyber landscape is set to face new and evolving threats. What trends should we prepare for and how can we stay one step ahead?