In an exclusive interview with Symantec’s Manoj Sharma, one of the leading cybersecurity experts, the discussion centered around the emerging trends in generative artificial intelligence (AI). The interview, which aired on June 30th, 2023, on the renowned CyberWire Daily Podcast, shed light on the potential risks and benefits associated with this rapidly evolving technology.
Generative AI, also known as GAI, refers to the use of AI algorithms to produce content such as images, videos, and text without human intervention. While it has shown immense promise in various fields like art, design, and entertainment, it also harbors potential threats to cyber security.
Sharma began the interview by acknowledging the increasing interest in generative AI within the cybersecurity community. He emphasized that the technology’s ability to mimic human creativity and produce realistic content poses significant challenges for organizations and individuals alike. With the ability to create highly convincing phishing emails, malicious actors could exploit this technology to deceive unsuspecting victims.
The conversation then delved into the evolution of generative AI and its applications. Sharma highlighted how AI algorithms have progressed from generating basic audio and visual content to producing more complex and sophisticated outputs. This advancement has raised concerns about the ethics and legality surrounding the use of AI-generated content.
Sharma mentioned some alarming instances where GAI has been misused. He cited deepfake technology as one of the most concerning examples, where AI-generated videos can make it appear as if someone said or did something that they never did. These deepfakes can be used to tarnish reputations, spread disinformation, or even manipulate public opinion.
However, Sharma also acknowledged the positive aspects of generative AI. He pointed out that GAI has immense potential in augmenting human creativity and enabling breakthroughs in various industries. For example, AI-generated art has gained recognition and is being sold for significant sums of money. Additionally, in the field of design, generative AI can assist in creating innovative and unique products.
When asked about the steps being taken to mitigate the risks associated with generative AI, Sharma stressed the importance of collaboration between industry experts, academia, and government bodies. He highlighted Symantec’s efforts in conducting extensive research to stay ahead of malicious actors who may exploit the technology for nefarious purposes.
Sharma also stressed the significance of educating individuals about the potential threats posed by generative AI. He emphasized the need for greater awareness and vigilance when consuming online content, particularly as deepfakes become more prevalent.
In conclusion, Sharma’s insights into the emerging trends in generative AI shed light on the potential risks and benefits of this rapidly evolving technology. While generative AI has shown tremendous promise, its potential misuse poses significant threats to cybersecurity. It is crucial for organizations, individuals, and governmental bodies to collaborate in order to mitigate these risks and ensure the responsible use of generative AI in the future.