The internet has become an indispensable part of our lives, and with that rise in popularity comes a rise in cyber threats. As these threats become more advanced, so must the solutions used to protect against them. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly critical in this effort as it can automate security processes and provide insight into potential vulnerabilities.
We took a closer look at the potential impact AI is having, and the changes that we are seeing in the world of cybersecurity -if there is one thing that is certain, it is that this is a technology that shows no signs of slowing down.
What is AI and what is the connection with Cyber Security?
AI is a type of technology that uses machine learning algorithms to identify patterns, detect anomalies, and make decisions without being explicitly programmed. In the context of cybersecurity, it is being used to automate security processes such as threat detection and response, malware defence, network monitoring, and vulnerability management. AI-based systems can also be used to monitor user behaviour and provide insights into potential security issues.
What are the benefits to AI in Cyber Security?
The potential benefits of AI in cybersecurity are immense, and may include the following advantages:
Improved Real Time Threat Detection
One key benefit that cybersecurity can enjoy from AI is proactive threat hunting and detection – as a general rule, AI driven solutions have the ability to detect potential security threats far more quickly compared to traditional, non-AI methods, and this can help to reduce the potential damage that cyber threats can cause – the quicker it is caught, the less damage it can do.
Greater Risk Management Systems
AI also provides businesses with the ability to implement better risk management programmes, and fully analyse their threat exposure. This means that vulnerabilities can be identified and addressed before they become a problem, while also allowing businesses to better understand the risks that their systems face.
Predictive Analysis and Increased Data
Another bonus is the predictive analysis that AI can provide. By understanding current trends and behaviours, AI technology and machine learning algorithms can accurately identify potential threats and vulnerabilities before they occur – and this often includes the ability to pick up on patterns and potential anomalies that may be missed by human eyes.
In addition, the sheer amount of data that can be gathered through AI-driven security systems leads to better decision-making and improved security practices – as such, businesses are better placed to deal with any potential threats as they arise.
Preventative Measures
As the old adage goes, prevention is better than cure, and AI-driven solutions offer the potential to prevent an attack from occurring in the first place. By monitoring user behaviour, devices, and networks for any suspicious activity, AI can be used as a proactive measure for advance threat detection to help protect businesses from malicious attacks by spotting weak systems as early as possible.
Automated Systems
AI-driven security systems can be used to automate many of the mundane and repetitive tasks associated with cybersecurity, such as vulnerability scans, patch management, network monitoring and log analysis. Automated systems reduce the human burden of these processes, allowing teams to focus on more important tasks such as developing strategies and responding to cyber threats.
As well as security, automation also provides accuracy and speed that would otherwise be impossible to achieve manually.
What are the biggest AI Cyber Threats?
As with any type of new technology, it is important to consider the potential risks associated with AI in cybersecurity. These include:
AI is available to everyone.
One of the main perks of AI technology – its accessibility – can actually be a security risk. As AI technology is becoming more widely available, it can also be used by malicious actors to create new and more sophisticated threats. Cybercriminals can leverage AI to launch sophisticated attacks that go undetected by traditional cybersecurity solutions, so it’s important to ensure that your security systems are up-to-date and able to identify threats.
Higher Investment in Staff
AI is constantly changing, growing and evolving, and this means that organisations must invest in staff to ensure they are equipped to handle these new technologies, as well as any known cyber threats that may come alongside cybersecurity. Companies need to hire experienced personnel who understand the capabilities and limitations of AI, as well as how it can be used both defensively and offensively – and this can be a costly investment.
Artificial intelligence isn’t perfect
No machine-learning or system can be 100% relied on for safety and security measures. There should always be some. Ultimately, AI is a machine, and this means it is prone to making mistakes. AI-driven security solutions are based on machine learning algorithms and models, and these can be easily manipulated by malicious actors. Cybercriminals can also use false positives or evasion techniques to deceive the system, so it’s important to remain vigilant and ensure that your AI systems are regularly checked and updated in order to stay ahead of any evolving threats.
You should always ensure that there is some kind of human oversight in the system – an overall human set of eyes to ensure that any mistakes or anomalies are caught early on and the system is regularly monitored. This will help to reduce the risk of any potential security risks that could arise from AI-driven solutions.
Requires Implementation and Integrations
Though AI systems are becoming increasingly accessible, it is important to understand that you cannot simply start using AI overnight with no preparation. Businesses will need to make sure that any new AI systems are properly integrated with traditional security systems, programmes and security protocols – and this is a process that will take time, effort and energy.
In addition, AI solutions require a certain amount of data to be trained and taught how to identify threats. This means that businesses must ensure they have enough data available, as well as the necessary computing power to run these programmes – there are a number of guides and resources available that can help with this.
What does the future look like for Cyber Security?
Generally, the future for cybersecurity looks very bright and promising – the integration of AI and other automation technologies is becoming increasingly important for businesses, as they provide an extra layer of security that can detect potential threats before they become full-scale attacks.
In the future, we should expect to see more sophisticated AI-driven security systems that are capable of detecting even the most complex threats in real-time, ultimately boosting overall security, and reducing threats such as phishing emails or impersonation. Companies will also need to invest in staff who understand AI and its capabilities, ensuring that any new technologies are properly integrated and monitored – this will be the key to managing any known cyber attacks in the most effective way.
Interested to know more about what the future of cyber security looks like? Download our FREE guide on ‘The Importance of Cyber Security and how its changing’.
How should businesses prepare for a future with AI?
There is no denying it: AI is here to stay, so businesses need to start preparing now in order to ensure they are equipped for the future. Some key steps companies should be making include:
● Investing In Staff
As we have noted, companies should invest in staff who understand AI and its capabilities, as well as make sure that their existing systems are up-to-date and are able to detect security incidents.
● Protect Sensitive Data
Data is the lifeblood of any business, and companies must make sure that they have adequate security protocols in place to protect it. This means investing in measures such as encryption, authentication and two-factor authentication, so that only authorised personnel can access sensitive information. AI can also help monitor data traffic for malicious activity or threats, alerting organisations to any potential risks.
● Keeping Up With the Latest Developments
It is essential for businesses to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in AI systems and cybersecurity. This means regularly reading industry news, attending conferences, and investing in training sessions for staff who are working on security solutions. By keeping abreast of the latest trends, organisations will be better equipped to handle any potential security breach.
Speak to Freestyle TS to Learn More About Protecting your Business
AI is a technology that is here to stay and, when used smartly and correctly, is a tool that has the potential to have huge advantages for the cybersecurity industry. If you are looking for ways to keep your business safe, secure and protected, why not go straight to the professionals?
The team at Freestyle TS has all the experience and skills you need to help your business stay up to date and protected from threats and cyber attacks – and, as Cyber Security and Cyber Security Plus Partners, you can have total peace of mind that your business is as safe as it can possibly be. With the tools and resources to protect your business – including a free phishing email service to see whether your employees can recognise a spam email – this is a comprehensive solution designed to reduce risk, put your mind at ease, and let you use AI for the power of good. Get in touch today, and see how the team can help.
