Is Your Organization Ready for AI-Driven Cyberattacks?

January 17, 2025

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) to be used in cyberattacks is becoming a significant concern for organizations worldwide. A recent survey by Kaspersky has highlighted the growing apprehension among IT and Information Security professionals, particularly in the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa (META) regions. This article delves into the survey’s findings and explores how companies are preparing to defend against these innovative cyber threats.

Rising Concerns About AI-Enabled Cyberattacks

Anticipation of Increased AI-Driven Threats

According to the Kaspersky survey, a staggering 92% of IT and Information Security professionals in the META region expect a rise in AI-enabled cyberattacks within the next two years. This anticipation has driven companies to proactively enhance their cybersecurity measures. The survey underscores the urgency with which businesses are approaching the threat of AI-driven cyberattacks, recognizing the need for robust defenses. As the digital world evolves, so do the threats, and companies are clearly aware that traditional cybersecurity measures may not be sufficient to counter the sophisticated and automated attacks powered by AI. This foresight is prompting a reevaluation of cybersecurity strategies, with a marked focus on AI-specific countermeasures.

Additionally, this expectation reflects a broader understanding that adversaries will likely use AI to develop more complex and adaptive attack methodologies. Consequently, businesses are rushing to stay ahead by anticipating the potential forms these threats might take. The survey’s findings reveal a collective acknowledgment of the need to prepare today for the attacks of tomorrow. In doing so, companies not only aim to shield themselves from imminent threats but also set a precedent for an industry-wide standard in AI-driven cybersecurity preparedness.

The Importance of Specialized Cybersecurity Expertise

A crucial theme emerging from the survey is the immense value placed on specialized cybersecurity expertise. Nearly 94% of respondents stressed the significance of building internal expertise through rigorous training programs for their employees. This growing emphasis on internal capability development demonstrates a shift towards a more self-reliant and knowledgeable in-house team. Internal training isn’t just about defense but about cultivating a deeper understanding of emerging threats and innovative solutions within the organization’s ranks. By fostering this expertise, companies aim to create a first line of highly skilled defenders ready to counteract sophisticated threats.

On the other hand, 93% of respondents underscored the necessity for external expertise provided by experienced cybersecurity vendors. This dual approach—bolstering internal teams while leveraging external knowledge—illustrates a comprehensive and multi-faceted strategy to combat evolving cyber threats effectively. External vendors bring a wealth of experience and specialized tools that might be beyond the reach of internal teams. This synergy between internal and external resources creates a robust and dynamic defense mechanism, capable of responding to the ever-changing landscape of cyber threats with greater agility and precision.

Integrating Internal and External Expertise

Leveraging External Support

The Kaspersky survey revealed that 36% of companies in the META region have either implemented or are planning to introduce external support to adapt to the changing threat landscape. This external support often comes from cybersecurity vendors who offer specialized services and solutions to bolster an organization’s defenses against AI-driven threats. These vendors provide crucial intervention points that can mean the difference between a thwarted attack and a catastrophic breach. The utilization of third-party expertise ensures that companies have access to the most advanced and current defensive measures available.

Incorporating such external expertise allows organizations to fill gaps in their internal capabilities. By partnering with vendors that specialize in AI and cybersecurity, companies can benefit from state-of-the-art technology and insights that might otherwise be inaccessible. External support isn’t just about immediate defense—it includes long-term partnerships focused on continuous improvement and adaptation to new threats. This relationship can foster a deeper understanding of potential vulnerabilities and the best practices to mitigate them, creating a powerful, cooperative defense strategy.

Enhancing Internal Capabilities

In addition to leveraging external support, 34% of companies are adopting intensive internal training initiatives to build their cybersecurity capabilities. Training is no longer seen as a one-time event but as an ongoing process essential for maintaining a high level of preparedness. Employees at all levels of an organization are being educated about the latest AI-driven threats and the methods to counteract them. This comprehensive approach ensures that the entire workforce becomes an active participant in the organization’s cybersecurity efforts.

Moreover, a substantial number of organizations—61%—already utilize external cybersecurity expertise, while 62% have established training programs to enhance internal skills. This integrated approach aims to cultivate a well-rounded defense strategy against sophisticated cyber threats. By developing a workforce that is knowledgeable about AI-related dangers, businesses can create a culture of security that permeates through to every department. This not only improves immediate defense mechanisms but also contributes to long-term resilience against emerging threats.

The Role of Cybersecurity Vendors

Expertise and Advanced Solutions

Cybersecurity vendors play a pivotal role in helping organizations deploy effective protection solutions. Their expertise can manifest in various services, from operating advanced expert centers to addressing intricate security challenges. The Kaspersky AI Technology Research Center, for instance, consolidates AI research and development initiatives to enhance the protective capabilities of cybersecurity solutions. Their focus on continuous improvement and innovation in the field of AI allows them to develop cutting-edge tools and techniques for combating new types of cyber threats.

These vendors offer more than just technical solutions—they provide strategic insights and real-time threat intelligence that are invaluable in fortifying a company’s cybersecurity posture. Their advanced solutions can detect and neutralize threats before they cause significant damage. Through managed services and dedicated support, they ensure that an organization’s defenses are always up-to-date and capable of responding to the most sophisticated threats. This level of expertise and readiness is something that many organizations may find challenging to maintain internally.

Addressing AI-Specific Security Concerns

The Kaspersky AI Technology Research Center also focuses on security concerns specific to AI, ensuring that businesses remain prepared for the latest AI-driven threats. Vladislav Tushkanov, Group Manager at the center, emphasized that businesses are acutely aware of the increasing threat from AI-driven cyberattacks and are looking to fortify their protective measures through comprehensive solutions. The center’s initiatives include developing techniques to identify and mitigate AI-generated threats and exploring ways to use AI for defensive purposes.

Focusing on AI-specific security concerns means anticipating how malicious actors might exploit AI and preparing countermeasures in advance. By investing in research and development, organizations can stay ahead of potential threats and avoid being caught off guard. The insights gained from such focused research can be shared across the industry, contributing to a broader understanding of AI-related vulnerabilities and how best to protect against them. This proactive stance underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Recommendations for Enhancing Cybersecurity Posture

Bolstering In-House Skills

To enhance employees’ resilience and strengthen overall cyber protection, organizations are encouraged to utilize managed detection and response services, alongside online and live Kaspersky Cybersecurity Training courses. These initiatives aim to build a robust internal defense mechanism against AI-driven threats. Building in-house expertise ensures that employees are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify and mitigate threats effectively. This not only improves the organization’s immediate defensive capabilities but also contributes to a culture of security vigilance.

Training courses and managed services provide practical and up-to-date knowledge that keeps staff informed about the latest trends and techniques in cybersecurity. Regular training sessions can help demystify complex concepts and equip employees with hands-on experience in dealing with real-world scenarios. Additionally, managed services offer continuous monitoring and support, ensuring that any gaps in defense are promptly addressed. This comprehensive approach strengthens the organization from within and prepares it to face AI-driven cyber threats more effectively.

Transforming Workforce into a Protective Layer

Employing the Kaspersky Automated Security Awareness Platform can help instill cybersafe behavior in employees. This platform includes sections focused on AI-assisted threats and the safe use of AI tools, mitigating associated risks and transforming the workforce into a protective layer against cyber threats. By integrating such platforms into daily operations, organizations can ensure that employees are continually aware of best practices in cybersecurity.

Creating a cybersecurity-aware workforce means that every employee becomes a potential defender against cyber threats. This transformation can significantly reduce the likelihood of successful cyberattacks by mitigating human error, which is often a significant vulnerability. The platform’s ongoing education and awareness components ensure that employees remain vigilant and informed, thus contributing to the overall security posture of the organization. This approach aligns with the growing recognition that cybersecurity is everyone’s responsibility and that employees can be the first line of defense against sophisticated attacks.

Engaging in AI-Related Discussions

As AI continues to evolve, it’s clear that organizations must stay ahead of the curve, implementing cutting-edge security measures and continuously educating their teams on the latest developments in AI-related threats. The article explores these findings in detail, providing insights into the current state of cyber defense preparedness and the innovative future strategies being considered by companies worldwide to combat the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats driven by artificial intelligence.

Subscribe to our weekly news digest.

Join now and become a part of our fast-growing community.

Invalid Email Address
Thanks for Subscribing!
We'll be sending you our best soon!
Something went wrong, please try again later