- The rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI) also brings with it the possibility of being used for cybercrime.
- This is a particularly acute problem as the world faces a shortage of 3.4 million cybersecurity professionals.
- AI can also be a powerful tool against cyber threats – but it must be harnessed responsibly and safely.
- AI is already shaping the world around us – and this trend is only going to grow.
This new technology – which has recently undergone dramatic improvements that exceed expectations – has penetrated almost every industry, affecting them to a greater or lesser extent. It is changing processes and driving innovation.
But, like most technological advances, AI comes with a complex set of challenges, especially in the area of cybersecurity.
The transformative potential and risks of AI tools
AI tools like ChatGPT or Alphabet's Bard have huge transformative potential. Their generative power can foster creativity, improve customer service, aid decision-making, and more. Moreover, they are only the tip of the iceberg of the potential of artificial intelligence. However, these powerful tools are also vulnerable to manipulation by cybercriminals leading to threats that can damage corporate systems and cause significant damage.
As the complexity of AI increases, so do cyber threats. Imagine a skilled cybercriminal using an artificial intelligence tool to craft a highly personalized spearphishing message. This message, perfectly integrated with the communication style within the organization, can deceive even the most vigilant employees. Traditional security systems are often ineffective against such sophisticated attacks, leaving businesses vulnerable.
Similarly, cyber attackers can use AI to create deepfake voices and impersonate top executives. A well-executed deepfake could trick employees into authorizing large unauthorized money transfers, exploiting human trust to bypass security measures.
Another possible scenario involves attackers using artificial intelligence to tamper with data in the system, creating an enticing but completely fake stock portfolio. Attackers can profit from this false information before the fraud is discovered.
Another possible abuse is a fake email exchange between top executives discussing a corporate scandal. If leaked, such fraudulent communication could cause the company's share price to plummet and cause irreparable damage to its reputation.
Global networking skills gap
The increasing rise of cyber threats underscores the importance of cybersecurity professionals. However, global demand for these experts far exceeds supply. According to (ISC)²'s 2022 Cybersecurity Talent Study, we face a global shortage of 3.4 million cybersecurity professionals.
Africa in particular faces this skills gap. According to Global Knowledge's 2022 IT Skills and Salary Report, the continent has the highest proportion of IT decision makers reporting a severe shortage of cybersecurity skills. This deficiency exposes African businesses to higher risks and hinders their ability to respond effectively to cyber threats.
Address cybersecurity challenges
Addressing cybersecurity challenges requires a concerted effort by businesses, policymakers, and AI developers. Policymakers can play a key role by developing strong legal frameworks, promoting cybersecurity best practices, nurturing talent, and encouraging international cooperation to combat cybercrime.
Businesses must invest in strengthening their cybersecurity infrastructure and training their staff to deal with potential threats. This includes regular security audits, incident response plans, and promoting a security-first culture. Incorporating AI in cybersecurity strategies can also play an important role in identifying threats and improving response times.
AI developers have a unique responsibility to design systems that are robust and resistant to abuse. Data can be protected using techniques such as differential privacy and federated learning. At the same time, efforts like OpenAI's in AI and cybersecurity research are critical to staying ahead of evolving threats.
Embrace the future
As AI continues to evolve and integrate into our daily lives, we must ensure that our cybersecurity strategy evolves with it. The threat is enormous – but so are the opportunities.
AI can be a powerful ally in the fight against cyber threats, but its potential must be harnessed responsibly and safely. The collaborative efforts of all stakeholders are essential to address the challenges and seize the opportunities of this new digital frontier.