AI is set to become an integral part of daily life, while privacy concerns around biometric data and advanced technologies will take centre stage in 2025.

This is according to Kaspersky‘s latest forecast which provides an outlook on the cybersecurity trends and threats expected to impact consumers in the coming year.

The predictions highlight the growing integration of AI into daily life, coinciding with rising privacy concerns.

AI as an Everyday Reality

AI is predicted to fully integrate into daily life in 2025, becoming a standard utility rather than a novel technology.

With prominent operating systems like iOS and Android rolling out AI-enhanced features, people will increasingly rely on AI for communication, workflows, and creative tasks.

However, this normalisation also brings challenges, particularly as personalised deepfakes become increasingly sophisticated in the absence of reliable detection tools.

Privacy Regulations and Data Ownership

The growing emphasis on privacy is expected to lead to new regulations that strengthen user control over personal data. By 2025, Kaspersky predicts that individuals may gain the right to monetise their data, transfer it easily across platforms, and benefit from simplified consent processes.

Global frameworks, such as the EU’s GDPR and California’s CPRA, continue to inspire reforms worldwide, while decentralised storage technologies could further strengthen user autonomy over their information.

With the UK set to update their data privacy laws, this issue could come further into the foray.

Fraudsters Will Exploit Premieres and Releases

Cyber-criminals are expected to target prominent gaming, console, and film launches in 2025. From video game releases to the highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2, releases are likely to attract scams involving fake pre-orders, counterfeit rootkits, and malicious downloads.

Similarly, blockbuster films may trigger phishing campaigns and counterfeit merchandise fraud aimed at enthusiastic fanbases.

Political polarization will fuel cyber-bullying

Increasing political polarisation is expected to exacerbate cyber-bullying in 2025. Social media algorithms that amplify divisive content, combined with the widespread availability of AI tools for creating deepfakes and doctored posts, are likely to intensify online harassment.

Cross-border cyber-bullying could also escalate as global platforms facilitate the targeting of individuals based on their political beliefs.

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Subscription Services Fuel Fraud Risks

As the global economy shifts further towards subscription-based models, a rise in fraud related to fake subscription promotions is expected.

Cyber-criminals are expected to create counterfeit services that mimic legitimate platforms, aiming to deceive users into providing personal and financial information, resulting in identity theft and financial loss.

Additionally, the growth of unofficial resources that provide discounted or free access to subscription services is expected to become a significant threat vector, exposing users to phishing attacks, malware, and data breaches.

Social Media User Restrictions

Australia’s proposed legislation to ban social media access for children under 16 could set a global precedent. If implemented successfully, the restriction could pave the way for broader limitations on access for other demographics.

Platforms like Instagram have already begun adopting AI-powered age-verification systems, signalling a shift toward stricter governance of online spaces.

“As we look to 2025, the most significant impact on consumers is expected to arise from the intersection of innovation and regulation,” said Anna Larkina, Kaspersky privacy expert.

“Advances in artificial intelligence, privacy protection, and data ownership frameworks will reshape the way people interact with technology and manage their digital lives.

“These developments hold immense potential but also demand careful oversight to ensure they serve consumer interests.”