Artificial Intelligence (AI) has revolutionized how we interact with the digital world, but also brought new challenges to cybersecurity. This technology, capable of learning and adapting, it is a powerful tool for both advocates and critics. According to the ISC² Cybersecurity Workforce study, approximately 45% of companies still do not have a formal strategy for the use of AI, despite its potential. The research, who interviewed more than 15 thousand cybersecurity professionals worldwide, shows that, despite the 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, Brazilian company pioneering in artificial intelligence and data analysis, the importance of anticipating possible attacks is fundamental. "Data, information and knowledge are critical success or failure factors in the digitized society, from this perspective, keeping your digital assets secure is a matter of continuity and prosperity as much as of downfall and losses if poorly managed , affirms the executive
In defense, AI can analyze vast amounts of data in real time, detecting patterns that indicate cyber attacks. However, in the wrong hand, Artificial Intelligence can be used to create more sophisticated malware and carry out targeted attacks with greater precision. It can also generate deepfakes and manipulate information, increasing the spread of misinformation. The combination of Artificial Intelligence with hybrid cloud, for example, create a complex scenario, where the heterogeneity of environments increases the attack surface. The question is how to leverage the benefits of AI for cybersecurity without opening gaps for attackers
Santos evaluates that with the use of Corporate AI – one of the specialties of Aquarela Analytics -, it is possible to predict future threats, respond to incidents quickly and customize security measures for each organization.
For the executive, the answer is not simple and requires a multifaceted approach. "It is necessary to invest in research and development of AI-based security solutions", but also in education and awareness about the risks. Cybersecurity is no longer an isolated department, but rather a responsibility of everyone within the organization. The safety culture must be cultivated at all levels, from top management to frontline employees, highlights
On the other hand, the CEO of Aquarela highlights that many companies have been seeking to implement advanced Artificial Intelligence, but there is not always sufficient data maturity. Companies need to develop a plan to reach the highest level that technology provides and demands
To facilitate the analysis, the company developed theDCM methodology (Data Culture Methodology), that evaluates organizations on five levels of data maturity: Empirical, Ad hoc, Defined, Optimized and Exponential. When using an advanced AI, it is necessary to be at the fifth level of data maturity. We need to understand at what moment the business is, identify weaknesses and develop strategies for continuous growth. The Corporate AI operates in the core business, it is part of the business strategy, directly affects the main KPIs and has a long-term vision until reaching the highest level of data maturity, highlights Santos.
Data security is emphasized during projects. Since 2021, Brazilian companies from different sectors faced cyberattacks and this area was not given the due attention. Today the company must understand that in addition to creating an AI, identify weaknesses and develop strategies for continuous growth, "data security is an essential part of the business", complements the CEO of Aquarela Analytics, Marcos Santos.
In the executive's assessment, as AI becomes more sophisticated, cyber attacks will also become more complex. To stay ahead of criminals, organizations need to adopt a proactive stance, investing in cutting-edge technologies and highly qualified professionals. AI can be both the hero and the villain of this story.
In an increasingly digitized world, cybersecurity is a constant challenge. AI provides powerful tools to protect our systems, but also creates new vulnerabilities. It is essential that companies, governments and civil society work together to ensure a safe and reliable digital environment
