Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has released its 2025 Cybersecurity Outlook, pinpointing critical areas businesses should address to combat emerging cyber threats. The report comes as industries adopt next-gen technologies and face increasingly sophisticated risks.
Ganesa Subramanian Vaikuntam, TCS’s Global Head of Cybersecurity, emphasized the need for proactive strategies, citing generative AI (GenAI) and geopolitical changes as game-changers in the cybersecurity landscape.
Generative AI: A Double-Edged Sword in Cybersecurity
Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is transforming cybersecurity operations but also amplifying threats. Cybercriminals are leveraging GenAI for intricate attacks like deepfakes, phishing scams, and data manipulation.
TCS experts urge companies to deploy GenAI-driven systems for detecting and neutralizing these risks. These systems enable real-time threat analysis, offering organizations a fighting chance against the rapid evolution of cyberattacks.
Still, the risks are immense. The same technology that aids efficiency also empowers adversaries. Addressing this paradox will be key to securing operations in 2025.
Securing the Cloud: An Ongoing Battle
Cloud adoption has soared, yet it remains a security hotspot. Improper configurations, lax protocols, and unauthorized access continue to expose businesses to data breaches.
To mitigate these risks, TCS recommends:
- Strong encryption practices: Protect sensitive data at every stage.
- Continuous monitoring: Track system anomalies in real-time.
- Hybrid cloud strategies: Secure multi-cloud setups with consistent configurations.
Companies transitioning to complex cloud ecosystems must also bolster defenses, particularly as hybrid and multi-cloud environments introduce unique vulnerabilities.
Resilience in the Supply Chain
Geopolitical shifts and evolving business landscapes have magnified the need for robust supply chain security. Sensitive data, regulatory compliance, and operational integrity are increasingly vulnerable as supply networks grow more intricate.
TCS suggests enterprises adopt proactive measures, such as:
- Implementing dynamic risk assessments.
- Ensuring secure communications across supplier networks.
- Strengthening partnerships to anticipate and mitigate potential disruptions.
Such strategies can safeguard not just individual enterprises but the broader supply ecosystem.
The Rise of Cybersecurity Mesh Architecture
The shift to Cybersecurity Mesh Architecture (CSMA) signals a major overhaul in security design. This approach enables businesses to implement Zero Trust security models, where constant authentication and limited access restrict malicious activities.
By 2026, most large enterprises are expected to embrace Zero Trust, relying on integrated platforms for seamless orchestration. CSMA’s modular nature offers flexibility, making it easier to adapt to new threats.
TCS advocates for early adoption of these models to gain a competitive edge and reduce potential risks.
Embracing Automation for Better Defense
Managed Detection and Response (MDR) operations are evolving, with automation emerging as a cornerstone. Advanced MDR incorporates multiple security components that work together to detect and respond to threats effectively.
Chief Security Officers are now prioritizing automation-first strategies to counteract risks posed by technologies like quantum computing and GenAI. By automating repetitive tasks, organizations can allocate resources to more complex security challenges, boosting overall resilience.
Cyber Resilience: A Business Imperative
Resilience is no longer optional—it’s central to business survival. From regular data backups to detailed incident response plans, revisiting basic cybersecurity practices is critical.
Key actions for enhancing resilience include:
- Establishing continuity measures to withstand cyber disruptions.
- Training employees to recognize and respond to threats.
- Investing in advanced detection systems that align with modern risks.
This approach ensures enterprises are better prepared for unexpected incidents, minimizing operational downtime.
TCS’s Commitment to Global Security
With over 16,000 cybersecurity professionals and a global network of 15 delivery centers, TCS continues to lead in securing digital landscapes. Supporting more than 600 enterprises worldwide, TCS provides tailored solutions to enhance security postures across diverse sectors.
Their expertise spans emerging technologies and evolving business models, ensuring organizations stay ahead of threats while maintaining operational efficiency.