Protecting Your Business Against AI-Driven Cybersecurity Threats

With the majority of businesses managing their assets and admin exclusively online thanks to the development of cloud-based storage and advanced software, cybersecurity is more important than ever. One breach could be catastrophic, leading to the loss of customer data and potential financial damage.

In fact, the risk has never been greater. Advancements in AI are driving quicker and cleverer campaigns, leaving even the best-protected companies vulnerable. This is leading to an increase in threats, with 50% of UK businesses reporting at least one attack in the last 12 months. To stay secure, you must understand the impact of AI on cybersecurity dangers and how to combat these advanced attacks.

Understanding AI-driven threats

Generative AI has taken the world by storm since the launch of ChatGPT in 2022. With simple prompts, these learning models can produce text in different styles to mimic content created by a human. Hackers are using these AI models to make phishing attempts more convincing.

Furthermore, AI tools powered by machine learning software can process large amounts of data at incredible speeds. In seconds, they can collect and analyse information associated with targets and use this knowledge to create content with credible personal details. This fast data processing also enables hackers to target many more people significantly more quickly, further improving their chances of success.

It is thought that AI could aid the development of effective malware, although expert human knowledge is still needed for its creation. More worryingly, should AI-driven malware breach your IT system, it could learn the security measures in place and adapt to evade detection. Regular pen testing to simulate cyberattacks on your system is crucial in checking for holes.

Defending against advanced threats

The future of AI-powered attacks is concerning, but cybersecurity capabilities are also advancing – thanks to AI. While things will move faster, we will likely remain locked in the current contest as hackers and defenders seek to predict and outdo each other’s next move.

AI is already being used in threat detection. These tools can scan business security systems quickly and accurately, learn typical patterns and look for unusual activity which could indicate an attack. They are also intelligent enough to provide suggestions for cybersecurity improvements based on your existing vulnerabilities.

Should there be a successful incident, AI can help mitigate the consequences. Machine learning software can find and report problems instantly, and find potential solutions before you’ve even logged on.

It can also be linked to accessibility to adjust user permissions dynamically, tightening security following a breach and asking for two-factor authentication if it detects suspicious behaviour. This reduces the risk of unauthorised access to your important data around the clock.