This year, AI will influence purchasing decisions, but it will raise important questions.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is increasingly being integrated into security operations, with Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) adopting a blend of optimism and realism regarding its implementation. A recent report from Arctic Wolf indicates that 73 per cent of organisations have already incorporated some form of AI into their cybersecurity strategies. The financial services sector leads in adoption, with over 80 per cent utilising AI, while the utilities sector remains more cautious. Almost all respondents, 99 per cent, acknowledged that AI will influence their cybersecurity purchasing decisions in the coming year. On average, 39 per cent of security technology purchases now depend on AI capabilities. Adam Marrè, CISO at Arctic Wolf, highlighted that many security leaders prefer vendors to spearhead AI integration, as they often face limitations in cybersecurity talent and expertise.
Enhancing breach response is a primary focus for organisations, with 97 per cent actively seeking ways to bolster their threat response readiness. Approximately half are exploring AI-informed technologies that could expedite containment and improve outcomes. Interest in utilising AI for automation is also significant, with nearly three-quarters of organisations planning to employ AI for 24/7 security operations coverage. Many expect AI to assist smaller teams by managing tier 1 tasks such as detections and initial triage. Other key priorities include enhancing threat prediction and prevention, alleviating alert fatigue, and reducing repetitive tasks that contribute to staff burnout.
While most security leaders express some level of trust in AI, a small percentage report little or no trust. Two-thirds believe that AI will positively impact their security programmes within the next year, and nearly 80 per cent think it will enhance their ability to detect new or elusive threats. However, this optimism is tempered by concerns. A third of organisations worry about data privacy when employing AI, particularly with generative models that may mishandle sensitive information. Cost remains a barrier, with 30 per cent of leaders finding it challenging to justify the investment. Additionally, a lack of policies for safe AI use and a shortage of skills to manage AI tools are noted as significant challenges. Dean Teffer, VP of Artificial Intelligence at Arctic Wolf, emphasised that the risks associated with AI must be considered in any adoption plan, reminding stakeholders that despite its potential, AI is fundamentally a technology that requires careful introduction.
Categories: Adoption Trends, Breach Response and Automation, Trust and Concerns
Tags: AI, Cybersecurity, Adoption, Breach Response, Automation, Trust, Data Privacy, Cost, Threat Detection, Skills Shortage