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Understanding the emerging risks that come with artificial intelligence.
As artificial intelligence becomes more accessible, cybercriminals are using it too. For businesses, this means AI is creating opportunities and new risks at the same time. Understanding both is essential to protecting people, data and reputation.
Phishing attacks are becoming harder to spot
Suspicious emails once contained obvious warning signs, including poor grammar, unusual wording or inconsistent formatting. AI can now be used to produce messages that are polished, personalised and business-like.
Employees therefore need to look beyond presentation. Unexpected requests, unusual payment instructions, fake links and attempts to create urgency still require careful checking, even when the message appears credible.
Four AI security risks to understand
Information used to train or improve an AI system is deliberately corrupted, potentially leading to unreliable recommendations or decisions.
Carefully worded instructions are used to influence an AI system, bypass safeguards or make it behave in an unintended way.
An attacker attempts to copy an AI model, extract valuable information or gain access to intellectual property and business logic.
Weaknesses in third-party software, plugins, data sources or cloud services create risk within the broader AI environment.
Building an AI governance framework
AI should be managed as a business and technology risk, not simply introduced as another productivity tool. A practical governance approach should consider:
- Which AI platforms are approved for business use
- What information can and cannot be entered
- How privacy, confidentiality and security obligations will be addressed
- Who is responsible for reviewing outputs and decisions
- What training employees need
- How usage, incidents and controls will be monitored
Clear governance does not need to stop innovation. It gives people the confidence and boundaries to use AI responsibly.
The Nexia Edwards Marshall perspective
AI adoption does not need to come at the expense of security. Appropriate governance, education and controls can support innovation while reducing exposure to emerging risks.
Do you know how AI is affecting your cyber risk profile?
As AI tools become more common, organisations need clear policies, governance frameworks and security controls to protect sensitive information and reduce risk.
Whether you are already using AI or just beginning, Nexia Edwards Marshall can help you consider the risks, establish practical safeguards and develop an approach that supports both innovation and security.
Contact Andrew Grgic or your trusted Nexia Edwards Marshall advisor to discuss how to make the most of AI in your organisation.
