Artificial intelligence (AI) has become an invaluable tool for organizations and individuals alike, increasing efficiency and productivity in a digital environment. However, integrating this technology presents several significant challenges, especially in the cybersecurity sector.
Below is an overview of the dark side of AI in cybersecurity. While AI offers benefits, it can also be more than just an ally—potentially a threat to companies. It is essential to reveal the associated risks and the importance of responsible use.
Implementing AI and Its Paradoxical Challenges
The adoption of AI within the business sector is unstoppable. According to a study by KPMG, 68% of workers use AI to perform their daily tasks, and 47% say it has helped increase efficiency in each activity.
These figures reflect initial interest and benefits. Yet, rushing to adopt AI doesn’t come without setbacks. At least 17% of employees report experiencing higher stress and workload, indicating that using AI is not inherently simple but can increase pressure.
What is most concerning is that 30% of survey respondents believe AI has heightened risks related to compliance and private data handling. This statistic highlights a current dichotomy: while AI provides numerous advantages, improper use can jeopardize data integrity and security.
Blind trust in the technology, believing its outputs are infallible, or presenting machine-generated content as personal work, not only breaches professional ethics but also exposes organizations to consequences like reputational damage or legal actions.
Shadow AI and the Use of Unverified Software
One of the most significant threats to companies is Shadow AI, a concept that refers to employees using AI tools freely or at low cost without proper validation. Hervé Lambert from Panda Security explains that using unverified AI technology can open the door to malware infections, data loss, and other cybersecurity issues.
Factors contributing to Shadow AI use include the lack of specific security policies regarding AI deployment and employees’ unawareness of the risks associated with these tools and their seamless integration into workflows.
Organizational oversight gaps regarding the use of AI tools lead to undetectable vulnerabilities that often only surface when devastating repercussions occur.
Confidential data handled by free or low-cost AI tools can be easily intercepted or exploited for illicit purposes, damaging a company’s reputation and competitiveness.
Content Created by AI: The Main Challenge of Originality and Security
AI has the ability to generate content automatically, from text to images—an important application but also a source of concern. Intellectual property infringement and lack of originality are key issues when AI is used solely for content production. Furthermore, integrating AI into internal corporate systems can lead to cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Lambert notes that employing unvetted API interfaces connecting AI tools can expose systems to cyberattacks such as data poisoning or prompt injection.
In data poisoning, AI data is intentionally corrupted to produce malicious or incorrect outputs. In prompt injection, an attacker alters instructions given to an AI tool to reveal confidential information or execute unauthorized actions. Both scenarios underscore how irresponsible AI use can turn it into a security threat.
Artificial intelligence has the potential to revolutionize business operations, streamlining processes and boosting productivity. However, these advancements come with cybersecurity risks, including targeted attacks on AI systems or unintentional exposure of sensitive information.
The key to harnessing AI’s benefits is implementing a technological strategy that includes a robust security framework, continuous monitoring, and ongoing training. With these measures, companies can collaborate effectively with AI tools, turning them into allies for future growth.