CASBs, or Cloud Access Security Brokers, serve as an essential tool for ensuring security policies, data protection, and compliance in the cloud computing environment. Positioned between end users and cloud services, CASBs offer crucial insights into how users interact with cloud resources such as data, applications, and services. By providing visibility into cloud usage, controlling access to cloud applications, and offering threat protection, CASBs have become integral components of Secure Access Service Edge (SASE) platforms.
In recent times, the use of genAI, or generative Artificial Intelligence, has gained significant traction among end users. However, the adoption of genAI poses challenges for enterprise IT teams in terms of monitoring its use and mitigating potential risks. Cato Networks has highlighted the emergence of a “shadow AI” phenomenon, akin to shadow IT, where end users deploy AI tools without the explicit consent or knowledge of IT and security departments.
According to projections by Gartner, over 40% of AI-related data breaches by 2027 may result from the misuse of genAI across international borders. To address this issue, Cato CASB offers enhanced security controls to help IT and security teams effectively manage genAI usage. These controls enable enterprises to:
– Identify and categorize genAI applications to distinguish between authorized and unauthorized usage.
– Implement granular access policies to regulate actions performed with genAI applications.
– Safeguard sensitive data by restricting its exposure to large language models.
– Ensure compliance with corporate policies and regulatory frameworks by monitoring end-user activities involving genAI.
Ofir Agasi, Vice President of Product Management at Cato Networks, emphasized the importance of governance in utilizing genAI responsibly. The enhancements introduced in Cato CASB leverage AI capabilities within the Cato SASE Cloud Platform to enhance the discovery, classification, and security of genAI applications across the enterprise. This empowers security and IT teams to proactively manage risks associated with genAI while fostering innovation in a secure environment.
In conclusion, CASBs play a pivotal role in safeguarding cloud environments by offering comprehensive visibility, control, and threat protection. The evolving landscape of genAI usage underscores the importance of implementing robust security measures to combat potential risks and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. By leveraging advanced security controls, enterprises can effectively manage the challenges posed by genAI adoption and uphold a secure and compliant operational environment.