“We can't build a prosperous future unless we start with a secure foundation,” Microsoft UK CEO Claire Barclay says in Microsoft's new report on the intersection of AI and cybersecurity.
UK organizations risk losing the benefits of AI if they don't invest in a robust and stable cybersecurity infrastructure, according to the tech giant.
Just as businesses and governments are eager to harness the potential of AI as a defining technology of our time, there are also bad actors who pose a threat to our personal and national security. Traditional add-on security solutions can no longer keep up with the threats posed by cybercriminals.
Trust in technology is essential to leading in AI. A secure foundation is essential for AI deployment.
Despite steps to build safety into AI deployments, fraudsters are already leveraging AI to carry out a number of more sophisticated and faster attacks, according to the report.
Microsoft says risk levels are only increasing and UK organizations need to be prepared to fight the fire.
report, Mission Critical: Unlocking the UK’s AI opportunities through cybersecurityThe paper, co-authored with Dr Chris Brauer from Goldsmiths, University of London, says that for the UK to achieve its ambitions of becoming an AI superpower, it must first solidify its position as a 'cybersecurity superpower'. claims.
According to the report, 89% of UK organizations are vulnerable to cyber-attacks, with 39% of these considered high risk.
But while AI poses threats, it also presents opportunities.
extinguish the fire with fire
AI-powered cyberattacks can threaten critical infrastructure, compromise sensitive data, and commit fraud. But AI can also be used to counter these increasingly sophisticated attacks.
Because AI has access to large datasets, it can respond quickly and intelligently to potential threats and even provide automated responses.
However, the report found that around a quarter (27%) of UK organizations are currently adopting AI to strengthen their cybersecurity posture, with the remaining organizations using key technologies to strengthen their defences. You can see that it is not available.
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“While some cybercriminals are armed with nation-state resources, they are also using AI to increase the sophistication and intensity of their attacks,” said Paul Kelly, director of the security business group at Microsoft UK. I am.
“This study outlines 52 billion reasons why organizational leaders should 'fight fire with fire.'” The same AI technology helps leaders strengthen the security of their organizations and tip the balance back in their favor. AI has the potential to not only make your business and data more secure, but also reduce the impact on your bottom line in the event of a cyberattack.”
These 52 reasons are financial. Microsoft estimates that stronger cybersecurity could save the UK economy £52 billion a year.
Cyber-attacks now cost the UK an estimated £87 billion a year, and the number and complexity of such attacks is increasing.
Companies that incorporate AI into their security strategies can also see 20% less financial loss after a successful attack.
The global AI cybersecurity market is expected to reach $135bn (£105bn) by 2030, and 73% of UK organizations have not deployed AI in their cyber defences. This means they may be hurting their chances of benefiting from a growing industry.
Become an AI superpower
With the race for AI leadership in full swing, the UK needs to start fast.
69% of decision makers who contributed to the report said stronger cybersecurity defenses are urgently needed if the UK is to become a world leader in AI.
That being said, Microsoft has released a blueprint for sustaining cyber and AI success.
Supporting the widespread adoption of AI in cybersecurity is paramount. Rather than shying away from technology in fear, organizations must quickly embrace AI to respond to emerging threats.
Targeted investment and talent development are also important. With a dramatic shortage of cybersecurity skills, a commitment to training and skills is essential if the UK is to stay on track to lead her AI revolution.
Facilitating research and knowledge sharing, and simple, secure deployment are key to safely deploying AI to minimize risk and ensure organizations benefit rather than put themselves at risk. .
Dr Chris Brower said: “The UK has incredible potential to lead the world in the use of AI. This is an unprecedented opportunity to boost our economy and transform our public services.” Stated. “But that future must be built on a secure foundation. To become an AI superpower, the UK needs to maintain its position as a cybersecurity superpower. So many organizations is known to be vulnerable to cybercrime, our research highlights both the urgency of the problem and the useful actions leaders can take to increase the nation's cyber resilience. It’s clear.”
