Adversaries are finding ways to utilize the advancements in generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) technology to carry out automated attacks. Evidence suggests that offensive actors are leveraging AI and machine learning techniques to enhance the sophistication of their attacks. This poses a significant challenge for organizations and highlights the need for them to embrace AI tools in their cyber defense strategies to stay ahead of the game.
Cyber criminals have not introduced new forms of cyber warfare using AI technology just yet. Instead, they have primarily used AI to enhance their existing strategies. Phishing attacks, for example, have long been a common technique employed by attackers. While some individuals have become educated about the signs of phishing attacks, it only takes one careless click for a cyber attack to occur. Attackers have started using AI technologies, particularly large language models, to create plausible communications that are harder to detect. By using deepfake images and videos, attackers can exploit victims who are not expecting a phishing attack, making it increasingly challenging to identify and prevent such attacks.
Furthermore, cyber attackers are now using AI to evade detection within breached systems and to develop mutating malware that constantly changes its appearance. As AI continues to advance, it is expected that attackers will find more creative ways to exploit the technology. This constant evolution of attacks necessitates a continual evolution of cyber defenses.
To effectively use AI technology, organizations must ensure that their staff members are educated about how these technologies work and the potential risks they pose. Education should be accompanied by clear and well-enforced policies that govern the organization’s use of AI technology. It is crucial to comply with regulatory requirements and implement IT risk management strategies to mitigate the associated risks.
Once these basic safeguards are in place, organizations can begin incorporating AI into their cybersecurity plans. One way to do this is by evaluating the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, which provides guidelines for mitigating cybersecurity risks and protecting networks and data. The framework’s five functions – identify, protect, detect, respond, and recover – serve as the primary pillars for a successful cybersecurity program. AI can assist in addressing complexities within each of these functions.
AI is particularly useful in the identify function, as it can help categorize organizational assets and identify emerging threats more adaptively. In the protect function, AI can be used in protective technologies to ensure the delivery of critical infrastructure services and limit the impact of threats. AI is prevalent in the detect function, where it can identify anomalies and malicious activity, detect zero-day attacks, and analyze emails, URLs, and attachments for potential threats. In the respond function, AI can automatically respond to attacks, enrich security alerts, and automate the investigation and response measures. Finally, in the recover function, AI can aid in the forensic process by sifting through historical data for patterns.
The future of AI in cybersecurity holds great promise. By offsetting repetitive security tasks with AI technology, human cybersecurity experts can focus on more critical problems. However, as AI continues to evolve and improve, so will the tactics employed by cybercriminals. It is essential for organizations to monitor the AI landscape and stay aware of new developments and threats related to these technologies. This will enable them to adapt their cybersecurity programs and stay protected in the race between hackers and defenders, where AI will play an increasingly crucial role on both sides.