Human Led Cybersecurity

While cyber criminals are using AI-generated cyber-attack methods, cybersecurity professionals are also using AI and machine learning to develop advanced threat detection, as well as prevention and response solutions. AI cybersecurity tools have extended the battel between human attackers and human defenders.

 When detecting and responding to an attack, human experts have definite advantages that AI and cybersecurity technology alone does not have. Consider a ransomware attack, for instance. Ransomware is considered the greatest threat to endpoint security, with zero-day exploits, distributed denial-of-service attacks, credential theft, and distribution point sprawl also ranking as high-priority cybersecurity concerns for organizations. A human can identify malicious code and warning signs, distinguish false positives from alerts, and understand the context, relevance, and attack motivation of the cybercriminal in ways technology can’t. To protect your organization, you need to combat ransomware with the right balance of human defenders and technology. 

It is critical that artificial intelligence cybersecurity is not considered a replacement for the expertise of a cybersecurity professional for other reasons like data privacy.  Many AI cybersecurity solutions require access to sensitive data and the protection of that data is critical to avoid potential breaches. For example, AI models like ChatGPT warn against any confidential information being shared with any AI models like ChatGPT due to security and privacy risks 

Like any cybersecurity technology, as AI and cybersecurity become more prevalent, human cyber criminals will develop tactics to break down AI-powered defenses.  Cybercriminals take bold steps to gain access to networks, and these methods can sometimes bypass established technology. In some cases, even an EDR solution will not detect the malicious activity from the threat actor,  therefore a human response is needed. 

And human intelligence is needed to feed the innovation in AI cybersecurity solutions. Yet another reason why AI and cybersecurity should not be a standalone solution, but part of a complementary cybersecurity effort with human expertise.

Technology research and consulting firm Gartner now recommends humans as well. The firm suggests that organizations “use MDR services to obtain 24/7, remotely delivered, human-led security operations capabilities when there are no existing internal capabilities, or when the organization needs to accelerate or augment existing security operations capabilities.” That way, an organization can have access to human analysts, threat responders, and security experts who can function as a cybersecurity team or extended team to provide dynamic detection and prevention controls. 

Of course, humans working hand in hand with advanced technology is the best cybersecurity protection against cyber threats. In particular, the team should work with technology that ensures 360-degree visibility across all networks, endpoints, logs, and clouds for 24/7 comprehensive monitoring and detection of malicious activity. 

AI cybersecurity is a vital component in safeguarding networks and sensitive data. Leveraging AI’s intelligence and automation capabilities, organizations can proactively defend against cyber threats. However, the human factor remains integral in harnessing the full potential of AI-driven solutions. By embracing the synergy between human and AI defenders, businesses can establish a formidable cybersecurity defense, ensuring a secure digital future.

Technology alone isn’t enough to keep your organization safe from cybercriminals. Human attackers must be confronted by human defenders. When looking for a partner to help you mature your Cybersecurity, be sure to ask about the people, process, and technology your partner uses and be particularly interested in their adoption of AI Cybersecurity tools.  Make sure your organization has the humans and technology it needs to protect against a cyberattack. 

In an era where cyber threats are becoming more complex and sophisticated, Pondurance has extensive experience with AI cybersecurity, providing the organizations they support with the expertise needed to navigate the complex and ever-evolving cyber threat landscape. Through our proactive approach, customer-centric focus, and commitment to continuous innovation, Pondurance has helped businesses of all sizes achieve a heightened level of cybersecurity resilience. As cyber threats continue to evolve, Pondurance stands ready to support and defend its clients, ensuring a secure digital future for all.

Read more about choosing and cybersecurity provider (hyperlink to eBook) and questions to ask your provider.