Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized how we interact with the digital world, but it has also brought new challenges to cybersecurity. This technology, capable of learning and adapting, is a powerful tool for both defenders and critics. According to the ISC² Cybersecurity Workforce study, approximately 45% of companies still lack a formal strategy for using AI, despite its potential. The research, which surveyed over 15,000 cybersecurity professionals worldwide, shows that despite economic and geopolitical challenges, the growing adoption of AI is seen as a promising way to strengthen cyber defenses and adapt to new demands.
According to Marcos Santos, CEO of Aquarela Analytics, a Brazilian pioneer in artificial intelligence and data analytics, predicting potential attacks is crucial. “Data, information, and knowledge are critical success or failure factors in a digitized society. From this perspective, keeping your digital assets secure is a matter of continuity and prosperity as well as downfall and losses if mismanaged,” says the executive.
On the defensive side, AI can analyze vast amounts of data in real time, detecting patterns that indicate cyberattacks. However, in the wrong hands, Artificial Intelligence can be used to create more sophisticated malware and carry out highly precise targeted attacks. It can also generate deepfakes and manipulate information, increasing the spread of misinformation. The combination of Artificial Intelligence with hybrid cloud, for example, creates a complex scenario where the heterogeneity of environments expands the attack surface. The question is how to leverage AI’s benefits for cybersecurity without creating gaps for attackers.
Santos believes that by using Corporate AI—one of Aquarela Analytics’ specialties—it is possible to predict future threats, respond to incidents quickly, and tailor security measures for each organization.
For the executive, the answer is not simple and requires a multifaceted approach.“Investment is needed in research and development of AI-based security solutions, but also in education and awareness of the risks. Cybersecurity is no longer an isolated department but a responsibility for everyone in the organization. A security culture must be cultivated at all levels, from top management to frontline employees,”he emphasizes.
On the other hand, the CEO of Aquarela notes that many companies have sought to implement advanced Artificial Intelligence, but there is not always sufficient data maturity. Companies need to develop a plan to achieve the highest level that the technology offers and demands.
To facilitate analysis, the company developed theDCM methodology (Data Culture Methodology), which evaluates organizations across five levels of data maturity: Empirical, Ad hoc, Defined, Optimized, and Exponential. To use advanced AI, a company must reach the fifth level of data maturity.“We need to understand where the business stands, identify weaknesses, and develop strategies for continuous growth. Corporate AI operates at the core of the business, is part of the business strategy, directly impacts key KPIs, and has a long-term vision until achieving the highest level of data maturity”, Santos highlights.
Data security is emphasized throughout projects.“Since 2021, Brazilian companies across various sectors have faced cyberattacks, and this area was not given proper attention. Today, companies must understand that beyond creating AI, identifying weaknesses, and developing continuous growth strategies, data security is an indispensable part of the business,”adds Marcos Santos, CEO of Aquarela Analytics.
In the executive’s view, as AI becomes more sophisticated, cyberattacks will also grow more complex. To stay ahead of criminals, organizations must adopt a proactive stance, investing in cutting-edge technologies and highly skilled professionals. AI can be both the hero and the villain in this story.
In an increasingly digitized world, cybersecurity is an ongoing challenge. AI offers powerful tools to protect our systems but also creates new vulnerabilities. It is crucial for businesses, governments, and civil society to work together to ensure a safe and trustworthy digital environment.
