Kaspersky’s latest study highlights a growing concern over AI-driven cyberattacks, with 76% of businesses experiencing increased threats in the past year. Despite awareness, many companies face gaps in resources, expertise, and training. Kaspersky recommends adopting multi-layered security solutions, integrating an XDR ecosystem, enhancing employee awareness, and leveraging external expertise to combat these sophisticated threats effectively.
20 November 2024 – As artificial intelligence (AI) transforms industries, its darker applications are causing alarm in the cybersecurity landscape. A recent Kaspersky study reveals that 76% of businesses experienced an increase in cyberattacks over the past year, with nearly half (46%) attributing these to AI-enabled threats. The report, “Cyber Defense & AI: Are You Ready to Protect Your Organization?”, highlights growing concerns among IT and Information Security professionals about the surge in AI-driven cyberattacks and the readiness of businesses to combat them effectively.
The Growing Challenge of AI-Enabled Cyber Threats
The study notes that 72% of respondents are particularly concerned about cybercriminals leveraging AI to amplify attacks. From creating sophisticated phishing attempts to advanced reconnaissance, AI is reshaping the threat landscape, compelling organizations to reexamine their defenses. However, many companies are struggling to close critical gaps:
- 57% lack external cybersecurity expertise.
- 54% report insufficient IT staff.
- 49% struggle with a shortage of qualified personnel.
- 52% admit to inadequate training programs.
- 53% do not have robust cybersecurity solutions in place.
While most organizations understand what needs to be done, the resources to address these challenges often remain out of reach.
Practical Solutions for AI-Driven Threats
Kaspersky recommends a multi-layered and proactive approach to cybersecurity:
- Comprehensive Protection: Ensure robust, multi-layered solutions like the Kaspersky Next product line, which incorporates advanced AI technologies to detect and block emerging threats.
- Unified Security Context: Implement solutions with inter-compatibility, such as Kaspersky Next XDR Expert, for an integrated security ecosystem.
- Expertise and Training: Leverage managed services like Kaspersky Managed Detection & Response or enhance in-house expertise through Kaspersky Cybersecurity Training.
- Employee Awareness: Equip employees with the tools to identify and respond to AI-assisted threats using platforms like Kaspersky Automated Security Awareness Platform.
Insights from Industry Experts
Oleg Gorobets, a corporate infrastructure protection expert at Kaspersky, emphasizes the need for balanced perspectives:
“AI tools are a factor, but the resurgence of ransomware and sophisticated attacks is often due to organized cybercriminal networks and innovative attack strategies. Companies must focus on securing critical IT infrastructure and adopting an XDR ecosystem to defend effectively. Employee training, including safe AI practices, is also essential to mitigate risks.”
Closing the Gap
The study highlights the urgency for businesses to align their defenses with the evolving threat landscape. With AI transforming both opportunities and risks, the need for proactive measures has never been more critical.
