Zscaler Report: 80% of Companies Adopting Zero Trust Security in 2022

The Covid-19 pandemic led many businesses to use virtual private networks (VPNs) for remote and hybrid work. This drove cybercriminals to increasingly target remote access security vulnerabilities and launch VPN attacks, according to the 2022 VPN Risk Report from zero trust security company Zscaler.

Key takeaways from Zscaler's report include:

Furthermore, 97% of companies said they understand that their VPNs are vulnerable to cyberattacks and exploits, the Zscaler report indicated. Regardless of the risk, these businesses still leverage VPNs.

Companies Are Concerned About Internet-Based Attacks

Businesses prioritize ransomware (78%) over all other types of internet-based attacks, according to Zscaler's report. Along with ransomware, companies also are concerned about the following internet-based attacks:

It only takes one infected device or stolen credential to compromise a network, Zscaler noted. As such, cybercriminals are more likely than ever before to target VPN users in the hopes of gaining access to business networks comprised of many devices.

Zero Trust Security Is a Priority for Businesses

The adoption of zero trust network access (ZTNA) solutions and zero trust architecture (ZTA) has "gained traction in recent years," Zscaler said. As more companies have hired mobile and remote workers, zero trust adoption has become a priority.

Approximately 80% of companies are adopting or have adopted zero trust security solutions in 2022, Zscaler reported. In addition, 68% said their focus on remote work "accelerated the priority of zero trust projects" within their organizations.

Now, 65% of companies are considering remote access alternatives to traditional VPNs, Zscaler's report showed.  Many businesses also are prepared to explore ways to empower hybrid and remote workers. This could lead more companies to adopt zero trust security solutions in the near future.