Thu Sep 12 15:36:00 UTC 2024: ## Cyber Security Arms Race Heats Up as BT Hosts Secure Tomorrow Festival

**Ipswich, Suffolk** – Tech giant BT hosted a major cyber security conference, “Secure Tomorrow,” at its Adastral Park facility near Ipswich, highlighting the growing threat posed by cybercriminals utilizing advanced technologies. The event brought together top industry professionals and experts, including former intelligence officer and TV personality Ben Owen from “Hunted.”

BT, which logs an astounding 200 million potential cyberattacks per day across its global networks, emphasized the importance of robust security measures, both within the company and across its client base. BT Group CEO Allison Kirkby stressed the company’s commitment to “setting the bar really high” internally, while BT Business CEO Bas Burger highlighted the increasing reliance on digital technologies by businesses, making them vulnerable to attacks.

Owen, who addressed the gathering, warned that hackers are rapidly adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI), creating a need for organizations to match this technological evolution. He advocated for the use of advanced security tools, such as BT’s AI-powered platform “Eagle-i,” which helps predict, detect, and neutralize cyberattacks.

The conference revealed concerning data demonstrating the increased frequency of malicious online scans targeting web-connected devices. These scans, averaging once every 90 seconds, indicate hackers are actively seeking vulnerabilities in business and public service networks. The figures reveal a staggering 1,234% annual rise in new malicious internet protocol (IP) scanners recorded across BT’s networks.

While IT, defence, and financial services remain prime targets, sectors like retail, education, and hospitality are also increasingly susceptible to cyberattacks. Owen emphasized the need for companies to prioritize security, as hackers are leveraging advanced technology to exploit vulnerabilities and bypass traditional defenses.

The “Secure Tomorrow” conference served as a stark reminder of the ongoing cyber security arms race and the need for businesses to invest in robust security measures and stay ahead of evolving threats.

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