A recent report by cybersecurity firm Delinea highlights that digital entities like bots and AI agents are becoming major targets for cyberattacks as their use increases in organizations. For every person, there are around 46 digital identities, known as non-human identities (NHIs), expected to exceed 45 billion by 2025. While human identities are commonly targeted, NHIs also pose significant security risks that are often ignored. Many organizations have experienced security incidents linked to NHIs, and a large percentage of these identities are not updated as recommended, making them more vulnerable to attacks. Additionally, nearly all organizations are exposing their NHIs to third-party vendors, further heightening security risks.
Digital Entities in Cybersecurity: A Rising Threat
Cybersecurity threats are evolving, and according to a recent report by Delinea, non-human identities (NHIs), such as bots and AI agents, are becoming prime targets for cyberattacks. As businesses increasingly rely on these digital entities, it’s essential to understand their associated risks.
Key Findings:
– NHIs, which are digital identities for applications and devices, are projected to outnumber human identities by a substantial margin. For every human user, there are approximately 46 NHIs, and this number is expected to exceed 45 billion by 2025.
– While human users remain a significant target for cybercriminals, NHIs pose an equally critical risk that is often overlooked. These identities can serve as gateways for attackers into corporate networks.
Cybersecurity Insights:
As companies like Microsoft and SAP implement AI agents to streamline operations, it’s crucial to address the security gaps posed by NHIs. Each NHI represents a potential entry point for attackers, making it vital for organizations to prioritize their security.
– Many organizations neglect regular updates for their NHIs. The report revealed that over 70% of NHIs are not rotated or replaced as frequently as recommended, leaving them vulnerable.
– Furthermore, a staggering 97% of organizations expose their NHIs to third-party vendors, increasing the chances of unauthorized access.
Recent studies have shown that nearly one in five companies have faced security incidents linked to NHIs, highlighting the urgent need for improved protective measures.
In conclusion, as organizations embrace digital transformation and the use of AI, they must not underestimate the security implications posed by non-human identities. Implementing robust security strategies is essential to mitigate the associated risks.
Keywords: cybersecurity, non-human identities, AI agents, digital transformation, security risks.
What are AI agents?
AI agents are software programs that can learn, reason, and make decisions like a human. They are used in various applications, such as chatbots, virtual assistants, and even self-driving cars.
Why are AI agents targets for cyberattacks?
Cyberattackers see AI agents as attractive targets because they hold valuable data and can control important systems. If hacked, these agents can be manipulated to cause disruptions or steal sensitive information.
How can we protect AI agents from cyberattacks?
To protect AI agents, organizations should regularly update their software, usestrong security measures like encryption, and monitor systems for unusual activities. Training staff on security awareness can also help.
What are some examples of attacks on AI agents?
Examples of attacks on AI agents include data poisoning, where attackers feed false information to skew results, and adversarial attacks, which trick the AI into making wrong decisions.
What should I do if I suspect an attack on an AI agent?
If you suspect an attack, it’s important to immediately report it to your organization’s IT team. They can investigate the issue and take action to secure the AI agent. Keeping communication open is key to resolving such incidents quickly.