Artificial Intelligence tools are being integrated into business environments at an extremely rapid pace, and all indicators point to continuing future growth in their implementation. Many employees in business environments use Large Language Models (LLMs) to help automate repetitive tasks and enhance productivity. Machine Learning (ML) is helping businesses uncover trends in customer relationship data, thus sharpening their insights into business objectives. Many businesses are also using Generative AI to help spiff up their visual marketing.
Like with all emerging trends, AI has introduced new vulnerabilities into the digital landscape. Leakage of sensitive company data into online LLMs is a major issue that needs to be addressed, as is overreliance on AI-generated insights that may be incorrect. AI also has a major overlap with Shadow IT. While many larger organizations have implemented their own self-hosted AI tools for better control, most small businesses use online AI tools attached to their business accounts. Employees of these businesses may try out different tools, attaching their business identities and sharing company data without any oversight.
Properly addressing AI-based threats requires you to first understand AI’s place in your organization. Ensure that you keep an inventory of which employees are using what AI tools and for what purposes. Gathering this information will help you make security decisions regarding AI implementation and governance.