The growing threat of AI cyber security risks
Written by Sid Collis from Bold IT
In almost every sector around the globe, businesses are looking at how AI can be integrated into their operations and cyber security certainly isn’t immune.
But predictably, AI is also being used by cyber criminals to make it easier for them to manipulate and steal data, and it’s already at the point where the rise of AI cyber security risks is a pressing issue that every organisation should prioritise.
In this blog, the expert IT engineers here at Bold IT are looking at the developing AI risks for businesses and what can be done to stay vigilant and remain one step ahead of the criminals.
Understanding AI cyber security risks
So, here we are, a quarter of the way through the 21st century, and artificial intelligence has truly arrived.
The AI systems are designed to analyse and process colossal datasets, automate decisions and enhance efficiency, all capabilities that can be used to do great damage when in the wrong hands.
Headline artificial intelligence risks currently lie around its unpredictability. Formerly robust cyber defence systems could soon be outmatched by the sheer processing power of AI and its vast capabilities in automation.
The development of these tools has essentially given cyber criminals a way to scale up their operations and attacks significantly.
Businesses today need to educate themselves on the risks that rapidly developing AI systems can pose.
For all the benefits that AI can bring to companies, it also brings new vulnerabilities and blind spots.
It’s just another of the many reasons that so many businesses are now outsourcing their cyber security to dedicated specialists. The dangers are just getting too serious to risk ignoring.
How cyber criminals use AI to exploit businesses
Cyber criminals have always been quick to adapt, and the rapid emergence of generative AI in recent years has immediately become a powerful tool in their arsenal.
Machine learning can essentially be weaponised to find and exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, and targeted scams like phishing are getting harder to detect as AI gets ever more convincing and is better able to emulate genuine human beings.
Another alarming development is the use of AI in creating dangerous malware that is able to learn and adapt in real time, allowing it to potentially evade traditional security measures.
On top of this, AI-driven bots can also launch distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks more effectively, overwhelming businesses with traffic and causing significant downtime.
The methods may not be new, but AI does give them a significant and eye-opening edge.
One of the most concerning AI risks for businesses is the potential for data poisoning.
This concerns the attacking of the datasets AI itself uses to function, essentially allowing cyber criminals to stealthily skew the actions of the AI in their favour.
You don’t need us to tell you that without robust, modern cyber security measures, businesses are left almost completely open to these sophisticated, AI-driven attacks.
What AI risks mean for your business
The purpose of robust, professional cyber security hasn’t changed.
It has always been about staying one step ahead of the cyber criminals.
It cannot be ignored that businesses must quickly understand that the implications of AI-driven threats are as profound as ever. In the modern world, customers and stakeholders expect cutting edge security measures.
Failing to understand, identify and mitigate against emerging AI cyber security risks is a short cut to long-lasting reputational damage to your brand and business, not to mention any compliance fallout and the erosion of trust.
Put simply, businesses that fail to stay ahead of potential threats in the digital space risk falling behind their competitors and making things easy for cyber criminals.
Thought must also be given to any third-party providers you rely on in the course of your business operations, including any cyber security specialist you work with.
Are your partners fully up to date with their cyber security standards? Are they a potential weak link in your defences?
Here at Bold IT, we have no qualms about what our responsibilities are – we need to work even harder and smarter than the criminals to keep our clients safe and protected in this increasingly hostile digital world.
Reducing the risks of AI cyber threats
Put simply, mitigating artificial intelligence risks requires a proactive approach to cyber security. Businesses should start by integrating AI-specific risk assessments into their broader IT security strategy.
Understanding where the vulnerabilities lie is the first step to reducing exposure.
Endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions are critical in defending against AI-driven malware and phishing attacks.
These tools continuously monitor network activity, identifying anomalies before they escalate. Bold IT’s endpoint detection and response services are tailored to counter these advanced threats effectively.
Your employees are a critical line of defence against cyber threats, so investing in staff training is another essential measure.
Employees should be equipped to recognise AI-enhanced phishing scams and other social engineering tactics.
Bold IT offers comprehensive cyber security support for small businesses and larger organisations alike to help build resilience against such threats at all levels.
Collaborating with a trusted cyber security provider like Bold IT ensures your defences evolve alongside the threat landscape. With AI advancing rapidly, regular updates and audits are vital to staying secure.
Protect your business with Bold IT's expertise
Learn more about our full range of cyber security services and discover how we can help you mitigate AI risks for businesses like yours. Contact us today to discover a better way forward for your IT solutions – you can even book a meeting right now to get the ball rolling with us.