A recent study by Kaspersky Lab found that the majority of companies in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in their business processes. Specifically, 61% and 64% of companies are implementing AI and IoT in their infrastructure. A further 28% are preparing to adopt AI and 26% plan to integrate IoT within the next two years.
These interconnected technologies function as the Internet and a network of interconnected devices, systems, and applications. These allow businesses to collect larger amounts of data and automate processes. However, these benefits also portend potential risks and challenges in protecting business assets and customer information.
Kaspersky Lab's research “Connecting the Future of Business” aims to help businesses stay ahead of developments brought about by interconnected technologies. It also raises important questions about how cybersecurity needs to adapt in response to these technologies. The study surveyed 560 senior IT security leaders from around the world, with 100 respondents from his APAC region.
In addition to AI and IoT, interconnection technologies considered in the study include augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), digital twins, next-generation wireless communications 6G, and Web 3.0 to facilitate distributed applications; Blockchain smart contracts and dataspaces for user-managed data and seamless data sharing in a collaborative environment.
The survey found that 27% of businesses are already using Data Spaces, and more than half (54%) plan to adopt it soon. Other technologies such as digital twins, AR, VR, Web 3.0, and 6G are used by 8-20% of enterprises, while more than 70% have plans to integrate them into their business processes in the near future .
AI and IoT are so pervasive that they are susceptible to new vectors of cyberattacks. The survey highlights that 13-14% of organizations in the region find it very difficult or extremely difficult to secure AI and IoT. Only 6% of AI users and 10% of IoT owners believe their companies are fully protected.
When it comes to cybersecurity, there is a clear skills and knowledge gap that needs urgent attention, said Adrian Hyer, Kaspersky Lab's managing director for Asia Pacific. Interconnected technologies create numerous business opportunities, but they also pose serious cyber threats. As the amount of data collected and transmitted increases, cybersecurity measures must be strengthened. Mr. Hyer emphasized the importance of companies allocating the necessary resources to cybersecurity to address these new challenges.
Ivan Vasunov, vice president of corporate products at Kaspersky Lab He said infrastructure must be protected with detection and response solutions. He also noted the importance of building customer trust in an increasingly interconnected world and said businesses must protect critical assets.
Kaspersky Lab's research also offers several recommendations to ensure organizations can protect their interconnected technologies. These include adopting secure-by-design principles, upskilling your workforce, upgrading your cybersecurity solutions with more advanced features, protecting your infrastructure with cybersecurity products, and reducing legal and reputational damage. This includes changes in cybersecurity practices to avoid standards and legal requirements.
