Malicious cyber attacks against government and private businesses have increased in frequency and severity over past years. Microsoft estimates the potential cost of cyber-crime to the global community at $500 billion and that breaches of data will cost the average company around $3.8 million. The unfortunate truth is that the cybersecurity industry is largely unprepared for the increase in cyber attacks anticipated in the coming years.
Cybersecurity professionals are finding it increasingly difficult to keep up with industry demand. The situation is expected to worsen by 2021, when as many as 3.5 million cybersecurity roles will remain unfilled. Considering that most IT professionals already work an average of 52 hours a week, it is unlikely they will be able to further compensate for the lack of new talent.
Can AI Fill the Talent Gap?
AI algorithms outfitted with Machine Learning (ML) capabilities are making strides in responding to the many and varied cyber threats that businesses, governments, and individuals face today. The continued development and evolution of malware, ransomware, and other cyber-threats make detection with conventional cyber security protocols increasingly difficult.
More dynamic approaches are required to answer the threats. The nature of AI and ML, which use past data from previous cyber-attacks to identify and respond to newer threats, could be at least part of the answer. Similarly to how these technologies are used at the consumer level in voice app development, AI and ML could learn from old attacks and develop methods of stopping them in their tracks.
An integrated AI/ML system could be used to free up time for cybersecurity professionals, detecting and flagging the overwhelming number of potential threats that humans may not have the time to search for. Once notified, professionals can either work to mitigate the risk, or leave AI to deal with it on its own if an uncomplicated response is required.
When ML principles are combined with AI technology, systems can improve over time and provide the edge that businesses need to overcome cyber terrorism. Crucial Point LLC is taking advantage of new machine learning capabilities with the most innovative and advanced technologies for cyber-security consulting, due diligence services, security engineering, and federal market advisory services. We’re constantly updating our consulting approach and services to combat even the newest cyber-threats.
It’s true that AI may not be able to respond to all attacks on its own. But, by working alongside human professionals, more risks can be identified and dealt with than humans can manage by themselves.
The Outlook For Cybersecurity
Cyber warfare is becoming far more common than ever before – 43% of attacks target small businesses and over 75% of the healthcare industry has already been infected. The cost to business and government is only expected to continue climbing. Many industry leaders consider cyber-crime to be the biggest threat facing companies around the world over the next five years.
As the market stands, combined human and AI/ML teams may be the best answer we have to effectively responding to this increased risk.
- Why Cybersecurity is Looking to AI to Mitigate Business Risks - June 18, 2018