Businesses plan to use more AI cybersecurity tools, with reservations
The global report details that more businesses are leveraging AI and ML tools within cybersecurity, and the perceptions that IT professionals have about such tools. While businesses recognize the need for AI and ML tools in cybersecurity, says the company, over half (58%) of the respondents aren’t sure what that technology really does, and only 49% of IT professionals feel extremely comfortable using these tools.
“AI and ML continue to present a troubling knowledge gap, particularly given the amount of confusing hype in the cybersecurity industry,” says Hal Lonas, CTO, Webroot. “A company cannot properly defend against advanced AI and ML attacks when less than half of its IT professionals are comfortable using the tools needed to defend against those attacks.”
And although over one-third (36%) of organizations experienced a damaging cyberattack within the last year, the report finds that the majority (83%) is still extremely confident they have all the tools they need to successfully defend themselves against criminals using AI/ML-based threats.
Key findings of the report include the following:
- 86% of respondents believe cybercriminals are using AI/ML to attack organizations
- 76% do not care if their protection uses AI/ML as long as it keeps them safe from cybercriminals
- Yet 70% say it is very important that cybersecurity advertising mention use of AI or ML
- 71% of IT professionals report their business plans to use more AI/ML tools in 2019
- Yet only 49% of IT professionals feel extremely comfortable using AI/ML tools
The last two findings, says the company, represent a clear disconnect and support the need for further education, or outsourced support from skilled experts.
“To level the playing field,” says Lonas, “organizations need to partner with vendors that have the historical data and skilled staff required to deliver the highest level of efficacy and automation to their customers.”
For more, see the report: “Knowledge Gaps: AI and Machine Learning in Cybersecurity” (PDF).
Related articles:
Cybersecurity firms partner to protect connected IoT devices
Ten IoT trends shaping the business landscape
Top five cybersecurity trends for 2018
IoT security bill aims to set basic standards
If you enjoyed this article, you will like the following ones: don't miss them by subscribing to :
