Cybersecurity for the AI Era
Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming cybersecurity, fundamentally changing both cyberattacks and cyber defense. From AI-generated phishing emails and deepfakes to sophisticated malware, AI tools make it faster and easier for cyber criminals to gain access to sensitive data undetected.
To better understand emerging AI risks in the cybersecurity space, Harvard Extension School gathered a panel of chief information security officers (CISOs) and cybersecurity leaders to discuss the evolving threat landscape.
In this new era, CISOs must know how to use AI as a defensive tool — and how cybercriminals are using it to launch attacks. By building awareness and developing an AI skillset, cybersecurity leaders can keep their organization’s critical information secure.
How AI Enables the Next Generation of Cyber Attacks
AI has democratized cybercrime. Today, the barrier to entry is lower than ever. Anyone with access to an AI tool and a desire to commit cybercrimes can do so. For example, would-be phishers no longer need to learn English and develop a polished, believable message to gain entry into a data system; they can simply have AI do it for them.
Naveen Balakrishnan, managing director at TD Securities, explains the new developments in deepfake phishing.
“Attackers now have access to incredible tools that allow them to search your public data, your personal information, and do very personalized deep phishing tactics. And it’s incredible how much work is already done for them with very little effort.”
Not only has it become easier for hackers to launch targeted cyberattacks, but AI also enables them to scale their attempts at an unprecedented pace. Hackers can generate malware code en masse and automate attacks.
For companies, the speed of AI cyberattacks presents a unique problem, and the stakes are high.
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How Organizations and CISOs Can Prepare for AI-Driven Cyber Risks
Evaluate third-party vendors:
Understandably, many organizations are concerned about how AI could affect their cybersecurity posture. To keep private data secure, organizations need to understand how their vendors are using AI.
CISOs should assess each vendor’s approach to AI governance and safeguards. Balakrishnan explained what he, as a cybersecurity professional, would ask.
Lastly, CISOs must ensure that vendors communicate proactively, especially when introducing new features or system updates. Staying in touch with vendors and monitoring implementation can help keep companies’ data secure.
Secure internal systems
It’s not only third-party vendors that can expose a company to AI cyberattacks. Businesses building their own models are vulnerable to attacks. Securing internal AI systems requires strong governance, clear transparency, proactive defense, and the right cybersecurity talent to manage it all.
Leverage AI as a defensive tool
AI isn’t only a powerful tool for bad actors. Cybersecurity professionals are also using it in their defensive arsenal.
Security teams get numerous alerts each day, making it difficult to pinpoint which ones are urgent. Sometimes, it can take hours for a critical alert to be handed off to an expert, who can then investigate entry points or affected systems.
AI makes this process faster.
Build transparency into AI systems
As AI systems become deeply embedded in cybersecurity operations, organizations must ensure these tools are transparent and understandable — not only to security teams, but also to boards and stakeholders.
Invest in cybersecurity talent
Cybersecurity talent is more important than ever. Businesses need skilled professionals who can successfully combat AI-driven attacks. They must invest in upskilling their existing security teams to face complex threats. In the AI age, cybersecurity is unlikely to see AI-caused disruption.
Advice for Cybersecurity Professionals
Given the changing environment, the panel had a surprising piece of advice for cybersecurity practitioners — be brilliant at the basics.
AI is always going to evolve. But you have to understand the core fundamentals, making sure you understand the tools to protect, whether it’s your emails, firewalls, etc. And then I would say elevate it by continuously investing in your knowledge education!
Cybersecurity is a field that’s always evolving. CISOs and other practitioners need to embrace lifelong learning if they’re going to compete with the speed and complexity of AI-driven threats.
A strong community of like-minded professionals is also essential.
Such as our group, Cyber/GRC/AI Academy!
Check it out now!
Written by:
Lindsay Nichole
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