As we approach 2025, the rapid adoption of AI technologies in businesses is creating a complex security landscape. With each human employee supported by numerous AI bots, the potential for security breaches is immense. Experts warn that attackers are now using AI for sophisticated social engineering and targeting AI systems themselves. Meanwhile, insider threats have evolved, with AI systems showing signs of autonomous behavior that could be exploited by malicious actors. To tackle these challenges, companies must shift to a “zero standing privilege” model for access control and focus on building trust in their security frameworks. The key to navigating this new reality lies in understanding that AI is changing how we think about cybersecurity altogether.
2025: The Year AI Becomes Both a Savior and a Threat
As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that artificial intelligence (AI) is going to play a dual role in our lives. On one hand, it will serve as an invaluable tool for businesses. On the other, it introduces significant security challenges that companies are racing to understand. With an increasing reliance on AI agents and copilots, experts warn that there could soon be 100 AI bots for every human in enterprise systems, creating a potential security nightmare.
Omer Grossman, the global chief information officer at CyberArk, shared a foreboding statistic: last year, there were approximately 45 machine identities for every human user. As businesses launch into full-scale AI adoption, this number is set to skyrocket, leading to a shift in how we approach enterprise security.
Three Key Security Threats from AI
The security landscape involving AI is evolving through three main threats. Firstly, attackers are exploiting AI’s capabilities for their malicious ends. For example, social engineering attacks could utilize advanced voice cloning technology, making it easier to deceive even the most vigilant employees.
Secondly, AI systems themselves are becoming targets. Cybercriminals are increasingly probing these systems for weaknesses, employing tactics similar to those used against traditional networks. Grossman likens this scenario to cloud adoption, but stresses that the stakes are now much higher.
Lastly, companies are scrambling to employ AI as a defense mechanism. Grossman notes that 2025 will be a pivotal year for security vendors to harness AI capabilities effectively. However, a significant issue exists: many security teams are still trying to integrate AI features into outdated systems rather than rethinking their entire security approach.
The Struggle with Shadow AI
The rise of shadow IT is minuscule compared to the complexities of managing multiple AI copilots. Companies now face dozens of new AI tools that pop up without any prior knowledge, complicating monitoring efforts. Each of these tools can access sensitive data, contributing to a convoluted architecture within organizations.
This web of AI systems necessitates a new kind of governance. It’s no longer just about controlling access; understanding the intricate interconnections among various AI systems is essential. Thus, managing data and AI governance becomes a core security challenge.
Insider Threats Evolved
The nature of insider threats has also transformed. Beyond malicious or careless employees, organizations must now consider AI agents that can autonomously compromise systems. Grossman emphasizes that attackers could leverage existing AI agents to infiltrate networks faster than ever visually recognized.
Developers face a unique dilemma as they hold the “keys to the kingdom” but also possess access that could create security risks. Thus, a new security model, known as “zero standing privilege,” which adjusts access on-the-go, is emerging as a promising solution.
Trust as the New Security Currency
So what can businesses do to address AI security? According to Grossman, trust is becoming the new currency in cyberspace. Developing robust relationships with trusted vendors, as well as establishing a security architecture based on continuous verification of trust, are critical steps.
As organizations get ready for the AI security transition in 2025, the lines between AI security and traditional cybersecurity will become increasingly blurred. The successful companies will be those that recognize AI security as not just a means to protect AI systems but as a foundational shift in how we approach security overall.
In this changing landscape, the real question becomes whether our current security frameworks can adapt to keep pace with the dual nature of AI’s potential as both a powerful ally and a formidable adversary.
What is “Your CoPilot May Be Plotting Against You”?
This is a concept that suggests when we rely too much on AI tools or co-pilots, they might not always work in our best interest. It’s a way to think critically about technology’s role in our lives.
Why should I be concerned about my co-pilot?
Relying heavily on AI can lead to misunderstandings or errors. It’s important to remember that AI systems can make mistakes or may not fully understand your needs, which can cause issues.
How can I ensure my AI tools are helpful?
You can do this by actively monitoring their suggestions and being involved in the decision-making process. Don’t just accept every recommendation—ask questions and think critically.
Are there specific risks of using AI co-pilots?
Yes, some risks include spreading misinformation, making bad decisions based on inaccurate data, and losing your own problem-solving skills by depending too much on AI.
What can I do to strike a balance between using AI and my own judgment?
Use AI as a support tool rather than a crutch. Trust your instincts, verify information, and combine AI suggestions with your own knowledge to make better decisions.
