Cyber security is always evolving, and now the buzz is all about artificial intelligence (AI). The topic isn’t necessarily new, but this time, it’s in response to generative AI. While AI has garnered plenty of headlines for its ability to improve all sorts of business processes, its use by cyber criminals has IT teams reconsidering their approach to security.
For months, organizations have plotted out the ways in which generative AI can provide them with a healthy boost in productivity. Now that cyber criminals have made it known they’re doing the same thing, but for nefarious reasons, the same organizations are turning around and considering the consequences of generative AI.
Downfalls of Generative AI
At one point, Amazon flirted with the idea of having AI be its secret recruiting tool for finding the best talent. Instead, it turned into a public relations nightmare, as the AI proved to show a bias against women. AI has also mistaken members of Congress as criminals based on their images. A Hong Kong-based real estate tycoon reportedly used AI to handle his money, losing upwards of $20 million per day. There are plenty of stories about how generative AI has failed, but what many organizations are focused on now is how it’s being used by cyber criminals to hack their systems.
For example, Hyas has reported that AI has been used to generate polymorphic malware. While ChatGPT, the first neural network code synthesis made freely available, might seem innocuous as a tool for answering simple questions or generating text, it’s also capable of developing software programs, including malware.
Self-Preservation Tips
The best line of defense is almost always education, as too many cyber criminals are successful only because a company employee made a mistake and let them in. Consider asking yourself these questions before implementing generative AI technology:
- What guidelines do you have in place for employee use of AI tools?
- What accountability measures have been put in place?
- Have you maintained a tight focus on the usual things that can fall by the wayside, like password hygiene and firewall protection or even multi-authentication protocols?
- Which monitoring solutions work best with your legacy software and your workflow?
You need a team on your side, a tech-savvy crew that takes the time to get to know how your business operates in order to determine which technological advancements can help you reach your goals. Safari Solutions’ technology advisory services help you sort through all possible solutions to help you sustain your business and branch out in the directions you want to grow.
If you’re finding it difficult to navigate the generative AI landscape, let us guide you. Contact us and let’s discuss our approach to providing value.
