Cyber Threats are Moving Fast. Is Your Organization Prepared?

Most security programs follow a set of predefined controls. They look good on paper but often fall short in real life. Why? Because cyber threats change constantly. Attackers move quickly, using new tactics that bypass outdated defenses. If your security framework isn’t evolving, your organization is falling behind.

HITRUST doesn’t rely on a one-and-done approach. Our security assessments adapt to today’s threats — based on real data, not assumptions. We constantly update our control requirements to stay aligned with the latest risks. That’s what makes our security framework different. It's built to evolve with the threat landscape.

How HITRUST stays ahead

HITRUST uses a continuous, data-driven approach called the Cyber Threat Adaptive (CTA) program. It’s a constant cycle of collecting, analyzing, and responding to real-world threat intelligence.

In the last quarter of 2024, we

• Reviewed 22 real-world breaches
• Analyzed nearly 4,000 threat intelligence articles
• Evaluated around 129,000 threat indicators
• Mapped approximately 42,000 of those indicators to known attack techniques and mitigations using the MITRE ATT&CK framework

All these analyses feed directly into how we update and refine the HITRUST CSF and our core security assessments. The updates ensure that every requirement in the assessments reflects the current threat landscape. So, when you’re working with HITRUST, you’re working with security controls that are relevant today — not outdated guidance from last year.

What are the top threats right now?

Here are the top five techniques attackers are using.

1. Phishing

It is still the most common way attackers get in. AI-powered phishing campaigns are now more targeted and harder to detect.
What it leads to: Malware, ransomware, and stolen data.
What helps: Email security, anti-phishing training, and strong auditing.

2. Command and scripting abuse

Attackers run malicious code using tools like PowerShell.
What it leads to: System takeovers and deeper access.
What helps: Code signing, antivirus, and limiting what scripts can run.

3. Process injection

Malicious code is hidden inside trusted applications.
What it leads to: Evasion of detection tools.
What helps: Endpoint protection and managing privileged accounts.

4. Hiding in normal traffic

Attackers use common web protocols (like HTTP or DNS) to avoid detection.
What it leads to: Stealthy control over compromised systems.
What helps: Network filtering and advanced detection tools.

5. Ransomware

Attackers encrypt data and demand payment to unlock it.
What it leads to: Downtime, data loss, and high recovery costs.
What helps: Strong backups and fast recovery plans.

What should you do now?

Take the following steps to stay resilient against cyber threats.

• Train your people: Make anti-phishing education a priority and track how well it’s working.
• Test your backups: Make sure you can recover quickly if ransomware hits.
• Control your environment:
  • Block unused network protocols.
  • Keep a complete inventory of all systems.
  • Monitor endpoints for suspicious behavior.

• Use modern tools: Protect your environment with robust firewalls and an EDR (Endpoint Detection and Response) system.

The bottom line

Cyber threats don’t wait. Your security programs shouldn’t, either.

HITRUST assessments are designed to keep up with today’s threats. Backed by real intelligence and constant updates, they help organizations build trust and resilience in a fast-changing digital world.

Whether you’re just starting your security assessment process or need deeper protection, HITRUST helps you stay ready — not just compliant. Download the complete analysis to learn more.