A recent study conducted by cybersecurity company Netskope has revealed some alarming trends in the world of enterprise GenAI tools. According to James Robinson, the Chief Information Security Officer at Netskope, despite efforts by companies to implement their own GenAI tools, there is a growing phenomenon of what is now being called “Shadow AI”.
The study found that nearly three-quarters of users are still accessing GenAI apps through personal accounts, highlighting the prevalence of Shadow AI within organizations. Additionally, Netskope discovered that the number of companies running their GenAI infrastructure locally has significantly increased, from less than one percent to 54 percent. While this shift may reduce the risks of data exposure through third-party cloud apps, it also introduces new data security concerns.
Researchers at Netskope warn that the move to local infrastructure poses risks such as supply chain vulnerabilities, data leaks, mishandling of data output, Prompt Injection, Jailbreaks, and Meta-Prompt extraction. Ari Giguere, the Vice President of Security and Intelligence Operations at Netskope, emphasizes that AI is not only changing the landscape of security perimeters and platforms but is also rewriting the rules. In this new AI-driven environment, Giguere believes that only AI-powered security measures can keep up.
The evolving threat landscape brought about by the proliferation of GenAI technologies requires organizations to adapt and arm themselves with sophisticated security solutions. Netskope’s study serves as a wake-up call for enterprises to reassess their approach to cybersecurity in the era of Shadow AI. As the boundaries of security continue to blur in the face of advancing technologies, it is imperative for companies to stay vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their data and systems.
Moreover, the findings underscore the importance of staying informed about the latest cybersecurity trends and threats. With cybercriminals constantly evolving their tactics, businesses must be equipped with the knowledge and tools necessary to defend against emerging security risks. By staying ahead of the curve and implementing robust security measures, organizations can better protect themselves from the dangers posed by Shadow AI and other potential threats.
In conclusion, the emergence of Shadow AI presents a complex challenge for businesses, necessitating a comprehensive and dynamic approach to cybersecurity. As organizations navigate this new reality, it is crucial for them to prioritize security and invest in cutting-edge technologies that can effectively combat the evolving threats landscape. By taking proactive steps to secure their GenAI infrastructure and data, companies can mitigate the risks associated with Shadow AI and ensure the safety of their operations in an increasingly digital world.