(SeaPRwire) – Cyber claims leader Tamara Ashjian, who was raised in Los Angeles, details what people should anticipate as cyber threats become more common and intricate.
NEW YORK CITY, N.Y., May 23, 2026 – With cyber threats constantly advancing, insurance claims expert Tamara Ashjian provides a straightforward, actionable perspective on what individuals can expect in the coming year and how they can prepare now.
Boasting nearly two decades in insurance and about ten years specializing in cyber and technology claims, Ashjian has witnessed the rapid evolution of the risk environment.
“Cyber risk is constantly moving,” she states. “It evolves more quickly than many anticipate, and that’s where the vulnerability begins.”
Recent Shifts in Cyber Risk
In recent years, cyber threats have expanded in scope and become more individualized. An issue once considered primarily for corporations now daily impacts individuals and small enterprises.
- Small businesses are now the focus of over 70% of cyber attacks
- Ransomware incidents have risen by more than 90% in the last few years
- The global average cost of a data breach exceeds $4.4 million
- Phishing represents over 80% of reported cyber incidents
- Close to 60% of small companies shut down within six months following a significant cyberattack
- More than 80% of breaches are caused by human error
- Implementing multi-factor authentication can cut risk by up to 99%
“The most significant change is its pervasiveness,” Ashjian clarifies. “It’s not a niche problem anymore. It affects nearly everyone directly or indirectly.”
Common Persistent Mistakes
Even with increased attention, numerous people continue to misjudge their personal risk.
“Individuals hear news of breaches but fail to relate it to their own circumstances,” Ashjian notes. “That’s the gap in understanding.”
She observes that many breaches originate from fundamental lapses—inadequate passwords, obsolete software, or missing essential security practices.
“I avoid overcomplicating security,” she continues. “However, neglecting the fundamentals is the origin of most issues.”
Areas Expected to Become More Challenging
Moving forward, Ashjian anticipates cyber threats will grow more advanced and relentless.
Cybercriminals are focusing on individuals via email, mobile phones, and social media. Concurrently, recovering from an attack is growing more difficult because of regulations and the sensitive nature of compromised data.
“Each situation is unique,” she remarks. “One day it could be ransomware, the next a data leak. This variability increases the difficulty.”
She also emphasizes that the personal emotional and financial toll is frequently downplayed.
“The impact extends beyond technology,” Ashjian describes. “It involves disruption, anxiety, and the challenge of restoring confidence.”
Effective Strategies
Ashjian’s approach emphasizes straightforward, regular practices over intricate fixes.
“Begin with the fundamentals,” she advises. “Assess your vulnerabilities, then develop your plan.”
She underscores several consistently reliable practices:
- Create robust, distinct passwords
- Activate multi-factor authentication
- Maintain current systems and applications
- Perform regular backups of essential data
- Exercise caution with email messages and hyperlinks
“These are straightforward practices,” she adds. “Yet they provide significant protection when an incident occurs.”
Three Potential Scenarios for the Coming Year1. Optimistic Scenario: Increased Awareness, Lower Impact
More people implement basic security measures. Attacks still happen, but their severity is diminished.
Recommended Steps:
- Activate multi-factor authentication on all important accounts
- Employ a password manager
- Monitor account activity consistently
2. Realistic Scenario: Steady Rise in Attacks
Threats continue to grow at a constant rate. While general security hygiene improves modestly, vulnerabilities persist.
Recommended Steps:
- Apply updates to all devices and software on a routine basis
- Back up vital information every week
- Remain vigilant against phishing scams
3. Cautious Scenario: Elevated Frequency, Severe Impact
Attacks grow more precise and damaging. Unprepared individuals confront substantial repercussions.
Recommended Steps:
- Conduct a security review of all personal and professional accounts to find weaknesses
- Minimize sharing of data between different platforms
- Develop a contingency plan for possible data breaches
A Grounded Perspective
Ashjian’s guidance is pragmatic, not designed to induce fear.
“Expertise is not required,” she asserts. “What’s needed is attentiveness and a few regular actions.”
Her background managing environmental, legal, and cyber claims has informed this viewpoint.
“The goal is to perform effectively,” she concludes. “Here, that means safeguarding your personal data.”
Call to Action
Tamara Ashjian urges readers to select the scenario—optimistic, realistic, or cautious—that most closely matches their current context and implement the suggested measures immediately.
“Begin with modest steps,” she recommends. “But begin today. Acting promptly improves your defensive posture.”
About Tamara Ashjian
Tamara Ashjian is a seasoned insurance claims executive with almost 20 years of experience. Her most recent position was Vice President of Cyber & Tech Claims at Tokio Marine HCC, where she directed the management of intricate cyber and technology claims. She has also held senior positions at NAS Insurance Services, Ironshore Insurance, and AIG, starting her professional journey as a litigation attorney. Ashjian earned a BA from UCLA and a JD from Whittier Law School. She is licensed to practice law in California and New York and is recognized for her practical methodology, leadership, and extensive cyber risk knowledge.
Source :Tamara Ashjian
This article is provided by a third-party content provider. SeaPRwire (https://www.seaprwire.com/) makes no warranties or representations regarding its content.
Category: Top News, Daily News
SeaPRwire provides global press release distribution services for companies and organizations, covering more than 6,500 media outlets, 86,000 editors and journalists, and over 3.5 million end-user desktop and mobile apps. SeaPRwire supports multilingual press release distribution in English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Russian, Indonesian, Malay, Vietnamese, Chinese, and more.