AI and Cybersecurity: Challenges and Opportunities

This article is a technical report that examines the dual role of artificial intelligence (AI) in cybersecurity, highlighting both its potential benefits and the new threats it introduces. It discusses the implications of AI-driven defenses and the evolving tactics employed by cybercriminals who leverage generative AI to enhance their attack methods. The report details various attack vectors, including sophisticated phishing campaigns and the creation of AI-generated malware, emphasizing the need for security professionals to adapt their strategies. It outlines three critical considerations for Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) regarding AI: understanding how attackers might exploit AI, identifying AI-enabled defenses to enhance resilience, and protecting AI systems from new vulnerabilities. The report also emphasizes the importance of integrating AI into security workflows to improve incident response and threat detection. Ultimately, it calls for a balanced approach to harnessing AI's capabilities while remaining vigilant against the risks it poses.