AI and Cybersecurity: The Opportunities and Threats
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly evolving and growing more sophisticated every day. Cybersecurity professionals must begin preparing now for the ways in which AI will change the cybersecurity landscape. While there are many opportunities for businesses to use AI to bolster their cybersecurity, there are also threats that must be considered.
In this blog post, we will discuss both the opportunities and threats of AI and cybersecurity.
What is Artificial Intelligence?
Most people have heard of artificial intelligence (AI), but there are still many misconceptions about what it is. AI is a broad term that covers a wide range of technologies, from simple algorithms to more complex systems.
At its simplest, AI can be defined as a computer system that is able to perform tasks that would normally require human intelligence, such as understanding natural language and recognizing objects.
However, AI is constantly evolving and becoming more sophisticated. The latest generation of AI systems is capable of much more than simple tasks. These systems are able to learn and improve over time, making them even more powerful.
What are the Opportunities for AI in Cybersecurity?
There are many ways in which businesses can use AI to improve their cybersecurity.
One way is by using AI-powered security systems. These systems are able to detect and respond to threats much more quickly than human beings can. They are also less likely to make mistakes, which can often lead to costly data breaches.
Another way businesses can use AI is by using it to automate tasks. This can free up time for security professionals so that they can focus on more important tasks. It can also help to reduce the chances of human error, which is one of the leading causes of data breaches.
AI can also be used to analyze large amounts of data much more quickly than a human could. This includes data from social media, email, and other sources. By analyzing this data, businesses can identify trends and patterns that may be indicative of a security threat.
Some of tools using AI for cybersecurity include:
- IBM Watson for Cyber Security
- Symantec’s Targeted attack analytics (TAA) tool. This tool was developed by Symantec and is used to uncover stealthy and targeted attacks
- Sophos’ Intercept X tool
- Darktrace Antigena
- IBM QRadar Advisor
- Vectra’s Cognito
- Read Next
What are the Threats of AI in Cybersecurity?
While there are many ways in which businesses can use AI to improve their cybersecurity, there are also some potential threats that must be considered. While there are many ways in which businesses can use AI to improve their cybersecurity, there are also some risks that must be considered.
One of the biggest threats is that hackers will use AI to create more sophisticated attacks. They could use AI to create new types of malware or to find new ways to bypass security systems. This could also include things like launching targeted phishing attacks or creating false information to spread disinformation.
Another potential threat is the misuse of AI by malicious insiders. Just as AI can be used to automate tasks and improve efficiency, it can also be used for nefarious purposes. For example, an insider with access to an AI system could use it to launch a cyber attack or to steal sensitive data.
Another threat is that businesses will become too reliant on AI and automate too many tasks. This could lead to problems if a cyberattack were to occur and the systems were not able to function properly.
Finally, there is the threat of AI systems being hacked. As AI systems become more sophisticated, they will become more attractive targets for hackers. This could lead to critical systems being compromised and sensitive data being leaked.
As you can see, there are both opportunities and threats when it comes to AI and cybersecurity. businesses must be aware of both when considering how to use AI in their own security strategies.
While there are many potential benefits of using AI in cybersecurity, businesses must also be aware of the potential risks. By understanding both the opportunities and threats of AI, businesses can make informed decisions about how to best use AI in their security strategies.
What do you think? Are the potential benefits of AI in cybersecurity worth the risks? Let us know in the comments below.
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By Magda Chelly
Chief Security Officer | TEDx Speaker | Author & Keynote Speaker | IFSEC Global Top 20 Cybersecurity Influencer | Entrepreneur | PhD, S-CISO, CISSP, Cert SCI (General Insurance)
Find out on magda-on-cyber.com
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Awards
- The IFSEC Global influencers in security and fire 2021
- Top Women in Security Asean Region 2021 Awards https://www.asiapacificsecuritymagazine.com/winners-and-judges-of-the-top-women-in-security-asean-region-2021-awards/
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