A Cybersecurity Epic in Asia Pacific: 51 Billion Attacks Reveal AI's Dual Role

In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital ecosystems, AI emerges as both a shield and sword, deeply influencing the realm of cybersecurity. According to Business Today, the year 2024 witnessed an astounding 51 billion web attacks in the Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ) region, vividly illustrating AI’s complex role in modern threats and defenses.

The Escalating Threat Landscape

The year-on-year statistics send a clear message: the threat is growing. With a 73% increase in web application attacks, the numbers are staggering. Australia, India, and Singapore stand out—each of these countries hit hard with billions of attacks: 20.3 billion, 17.3 billion, and 15.9 billion, respectively. The overwhelming frequency of these attacks highlights the vulnerability of digital infrastructures across the APJ.

AI as a Dual-Edged Sword

AI is the linchpin of this narrative, as it’s both an asset and a vulnerability. The “State of Apps and API Security 2025” report from Akamai Technologies details how AI’s rapid adoption has expanded the threat surface. Application programming interfaces (APIs), often integrating AI tools, are ripe targets. The report cites 150 billion global API attacks, emphasizing the need for robust security measures in AI deployment.

DDoS Attacks: A Growing Concern

The specter of Layer 7 DDoS attacks looms large, recording a 66% escalation across the APJ. Singapore, India, and South Korea bore the brunt of these attacks, underscoring a pressing need for defensive innovation. On a global scale, these DDoS attacks surged by an alarming 94%, with HTTP floods serving as a pervasive vector.

The Call for Adaptive Security Strategies

With threat actors ramping up their tactics, Akamai’s Reuben Koh stresses the urgency of evolving security strategies. As governments react with stricter regulations—Japan’s revamped security strategy and Australia’s Cybersecurity Act 2024 included—the race is on for businesses to adapt. Proactive measures like shift-left security approaches could offer a crucial lifeline.

Looking Forward

As we move forward, the insights from the SOTI report, now in its 11th year, are invaluable. It’s a call to arms for organizations to leverage AI not just as a tool, but as a strategic ally. The message is clear: in a world where digital ecosystems are under siege, the need for smarter, faster, and more adaptive cybersecurity has never been greater.