AI in Cybersecurity

I recently read a McKinsey article about AI being "the greatest- and defense- in cybersecurity today." Ironic; isn't it?

On one hand, AI is "accelerating the speed of cyberattacks." Artificial intelligence tools facilitate the ability of cyber criminals to gain access to sensitive data. In fact, a Harvard Extension School article states that the barrier to entry of cyber criminals is lower than ever. Naveen Balakrishnan, managing director at TD Securities said, "Attackers now have access to incredible tools that allow them to search your public data, your personal information, and do very personalized deep phishing tactics. And it’s incredible how much work is already done for them with very little effort.”

This is an interesting concept because AI is typically viewed as a tool that enhances learning and development- not a threat to innovation or growth. Recently, there has been a sharp increase in the number of platforms made to mitigate AI risk.

On the other hand, AI is "powering cybersecurity defense," says the McKinsey article. The article also states that "defensive AI systems can analyze vast amount of data in real time." In fact, many AI tools enable real-time threat protection and decrease operational costs significantly. 

Fortinet is hosting an online 2026 AI Cybersecurity Summit on April 21, which is approaching. It will include discussions about cybersecurity and AI threats with professionals in the field. Similar conferences are happening all around the world, as AI in cybersecurity is becoming both an increasingly prominent concern and tool.