Most organisations now realise AI is an invaluable business tool to improve productivity and efficiency. AI solutions have been installed at an astounding rate to automate repetitive tasks and provide enriched data analysis on a previously unrealised level. While this can certainly boost productivity, it is also troubling from a data security, privacy and cyber threat perspective.

The crux of this conundrum is how the power of AI can be harnessed to remain competitive while eliminating cybersecurity risks.

The Rise of AI

AI is no longer just a tool for large enterprise, it is a tool every organisation can use. Cloud-based systems and machine learning APIs have become more affordable and necessary in the modern-day business climate for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).

AI has become common in the following ways:

• Email and meeting scheduling
• Customer service automation
• Sales forecasting
• Document generation and summarisation
• Invoice processing
• Data analytics
• Cybersecurity threat detection

AI tools help your team become more efficient, eliminating errors and helping make data-backed decisions. However organisations need to take steps to limit cybersecurity issues.

AI Adoption Risks

An unfortunate side effect of increasing productivity through the use of AI-based tools is that it also expands the available attack surface for cyber attackers. Organisations must understand that implementing any new technology needs to be done with thoughtful consideration of how it might create various vulnerabilities.

Data Leakage

In order to operate, AI models need data and this can be sensitive customer data, financial information or proprietary work products. If this information needs to be sent to third-party AI models, there must be a clear understanding of how and when this information will be used. In some cases, AI companies can store it, use it for training, or even leak this information for public consumption.

Shadow AI

Many employees use AI tools for their daily work. This might include generative platforms or online chatbots. Without proper vetting, these can cause compliance risks.

Overreliance and Automation Bias

Even when using AI tools, it is important for companies to continue their due diligence. Many users consider AI-generated content to always be accurate when, in fact, it is not. Relying on this information without checking it for accuracy can lead to poor decision-making.

Secure AI and Productivity

The steps necessary to secure potential security risks when utilising AI tools are relatively straightforward.

Establish an AI Usage Policy

It is critical to set limits and guidelines for AI use prior to installing AI tools.

Be sure to define:

• Approved AI tools and vendors
• Acceptable use cases
• Prohibited data types
• Data retention practices

Educate users regarding the importance of AI security practices and how to minimise the risk associated with using AI tools.

Segment Sensitive Data Access

Adopting role-based access controls (RBAC) provides better restrictions on data access. It allows AI tools access to only specific types of information.

Monitor AI Usage

It is essential to monitor AI usage across the organisation to understand what information is being accessed and how it is being utilised, including:

• Which users are accessing which tools
• What data is being sent or processed
• Alerts for unusual or risky behaviour

AI for Cybersecurity

Ironically, while concerns exist about AI use regarding security issues, one of the primary uses of AI tools is the detection of cyber threats. Organisations use AI to do the following:

• Threat detection
• Email phishing deterrence
• Endpoint protection
• Automated response

Train Your Team On Responsible Use

An unfortunate truth about humans is that they are, without question, the weakest link in the chain of cyber defence. Even the strongest defensive stance on cyber threats can be undone with a single click by a single user.

It is important your team receives training regarding the proper use of AI tools so they understand:

• Risks of using AI tools with company data
• AI-generated phishing
• Recognising AI-generated content

AI With Guardrails

AI tools can transform any organisation’s technical landscape, expanding what’s possible. But productivity without proper protection is a risk you can’t afford. Contact Pact IT Solutions today for expert guidance and Microsoft 365 Copilot Training to help you harness AI safely and effectively. 

Article used with permission from The Technology Press.