Surge in DDoS Attacks Targeting Financial Services Amid AI and Hacktivism

Akamai's latest report reveals a significant rise in DDoS attacks against the financial services sector, with a 738% increase in median attack duration since 2024. Pro-Iran hacktivists and AI-driven bots are identified as key players in this escalation, targeting online banking and payment systems. In 2025, 60% of web attacks and 83% of API endpoint incursions were directed at banking institutions. Nearly 80% of financial organizations have experienced ransomware attacks in the past two years, yet less than half have implemented advanced security measures. The report indicates that 96% of surveyed financial leaders reported at least one API security incident in the last year, the highest across all industries. Regional attack patterns show that EMEA is most affected by Layers 3 and 4 DDoS attacks, while APAC faces more Layer 7 DDoS threats. The findings emphasize the urgent need for enhanced security strategies in the financial sector.

Key Points: • DDoS attacks on financial services have increased by 738% in duration since 2024. • Pro-Iran hacktivists and AI bots are major contributors to the rise in cyberattacks. • 96% of financial leaders reported API security incidents in the past year.