Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often used for multiple purposes such as automating repetitive tasks and logically inputting data. AI technology has the capability to replicate a human’s mind where it can learn behaviour and interpret data. AI is used in many industries for tasks such as facial recognition and assisting with self-driving cars. As organisations become more complex, and structures are constantly evolving, staff can no longer use traditional methods to identify weaknesses and are turning to AI for cybersecurity.
On the other hand, cybercriminals have increased opportunities to access a company’s network infrastructure, as businesses become more complex, hackers have more exploits to use against them. This particularly applies to automated manufacturing companies as well as the oil and gas industry. Therefore, many cyber security companies have developed AI cybersecurity tools to protect organisations from cyber incidents. In this article, we’ll be exploring what the pros and cons are, but also pose the question as to what is cybersecurity in AI?
What is Artificial Intelligence and how does it work
Artificial Intelligence provides computer systems the ability to learn and think independently. It is a re-creation of human intelligence where purpose-built smart machines are used to perform tasks that a human would normally do. AI uses a systematic and rationalised approach by using a statistically weighted matrix, which is also known as a neural net. The neural net is seen as a decision matrix where AI applies deep learning and in this, decision layers are filtered to create depth. The interconnected nodes are used as a weighted bias for each filtering process. The pre-compiled data is then stored in a database which is received by the neural net. The data collected has answers that AI has learned and resolved, in which the AI creates a bias.
What are the main benefits and disadvantages of using Artificial Intelligence?
There are plenty of advantages and disadvantages of using Artificial Intelligence. AI is an emerging tech that enriches human resources rather than making them obsolete.
Benefits
AI reduces time spent on completing a task. It also lessens workload and enables multi-tasking
Has no downtime and operates 24/7 without any disruptions
AI makes processes faster and smarter, encouraging better decision making
The decisions made by AI reduces human error because data is collected by a set of algorithms. Thus, programming must be done right to minimise mistakes
AI is the driving force with innovative technologies in every field to solve difficult issues that humans cannot solve. For example, medical consultants can detect breast cancer in women at an earlier age
AI can not only perform repetitive tasks but tasks in risky situations. Humans can overcome many dangerous situations when AI robot performs risky tasks.
Disadvantages:
Creating an AI robot to simulate human intelligence is expensive and takes up time and resources
Limits creativity: AI technology doesn’t have the capability to think outside the box because it can only learn over time. It doesn’t have the ability to use a creative approach
Some sectors such as the manufacturing industry have increased unemployment rates. This is because AI technology is replacing those human resources
Now that AI applications have taken over mundane tasks, humans can become complacent as they don’t need to use their intellect to solve issues to get a job done
Technology and machines are emotionless. They cannot replace human connections, which are the core foundation of building relationships and teams.
Training in Artificial Intelligence
Another drawback with Artificial Intelligence is that once it has been programmed, the AI matrix is not re-programmed when it is in service. This is due to the limited availability of processing resources in the hardware. Moreover, AI cybersecurity requires more power to operate, be trained, and needs to be updated regularly to counter new cyber threats. Having said this, there is a role for AI cybersecurity for classifying data and assessing anomalies.
Employee training is adaptable and more flexible with AI technology. Employees have high expectations in training, skills, and performance in their workplace. They’re always looking to improve and progress. AI can transform employee training as it offers benefits in upskilling and reskilling of staff. Additionally, AI can tailor to individual learning capabilities and prepare content and adapt instructions to meet their learning requirements.
When is the best time to apply Artificial Intelligence in Cybersecurity?
Businesses that use IoT (internet of things) or are heavily reliant on IT could invest in AI cybersecurity for their protection. This is one of the best ways to ensure your business is not exposed to any cyber risks. The manufacturing sector, in particular, could benefit from AI cybersecurity and could also consider OT (Operational Technology) risk management solutions to further reduce risks. For organisations’ that are dependent on IT, AI is still beneficial as it measures irregular traffic, which will protect your system gateways. Finally, AI data can be leveraged as you’ll know if there are any abnormal activities in the network.
Secure your business with AI cybersecurity. Find out more here about AI cybersecurity solutions.
