In the ever-changing world of cybersecurity, organizations are realizing the importance of collaboration in keeping people safe. One way for cybersecurity professionals to stay informed and gain valuable insights is by attending industry events. These events not only provide a glimpse into new technologies but also offer opportunities to discuss future strategies with partners and customers, as well as build relationships with emerging vendors.
Michael Adams, a cybersecurity professional, recently shared his observations and trends from attending trade shows like RSA Conference and Infosecurity Europe, as well as engaging in customer conversations and peer interactions. Adams highlighted a few notable trends that are shaping the cybersecurity landscape.
One significant trend is the accelerated rise of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI). Across various industries, including cybersecurity, AI has become a top priority for professionals. A recent study by the IBM Institute for Business Value revealed that 34% of respondents are already utilizing AI and automation to assist with vulnerability and patch management. Generative AI, in particular, has tremendous potential in the field of security. However, to effectively harness this technology, cybersecurity professionals must establish internal guardrails to mitigate risks and seize the opportunities it presents. Understanding the type of generative AI employed, the data utilized, and the associated risks is crucial for companies. Transparency and a clear understanding of where company and customer data is going are essential factors to consider when incorporating generative AI.
To address these considerations, Adams encourages leaders to provide guidance to their security teams and employees on how AI tools can be used in the workplace. Additionally, companies should be transparent with their customers about the use of AI. Establishing a company policy around the use of generative AI tools is a proactive step for organizations.
Another trend highlighted by Adams is the sophistication of deepfakes. Deepfakes refer to media – photos, audio, or videos – that have been manipulated by AI or machine learning for malicious intent. These deepfakes are increasingly being leveraged in cybersecurity attacks, such as phishing and social engineering. The potential harms of deepfakes are significant, and organizations can take steps to protect themselves. Leveraging identity management and end-to-end encryption solutions in unified communications technologies, like videoconferencing, can help validate participants through cryptographic credentials.
The rise of quantum computing is also a noteworthy trend in cybersecurity. While end-to-end encryption is currently considered one of the most secure ways to share information, the industry might need to adapt or advance encryption methods to keep up with quantum computing. If quantum computing becomes a reality in the next few decades, current encryption approaches could become outdated and vulnerable. Organizations should remain vigilant about their encryption standards and requirements and ensure they don’t suddenly become obsolete.
Looking ahead, cybersecurity leaders must adopt a proactive stance and avoid getting lost in routine tasks. It is crucial to stay informed about the rapidly evolving threat landscape and take advantage of opportunities to collaborate with industry peers. Events like RSA Conference and Infosecurity Europe provide a platform to witness the latest innovations and technologies while fostering an environment where professionals can exchange ideas and address pressing issues. By actively participating in meaningful conversations and forging valuable connections, cybersecurity professionals can collectively drive progress and shape the future of cybersecurity, ultimately working towards a safer digital landscape for everyone.