PRESS RELEASE
PALO ALTO, Calif., November 19, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize industries, the field of cybersecurity faces a double-edged sword of opportunities and threats. The latest report from StrongDM, “The State of AI in Cybersecurity“, highlights the growing concerns and willingness of cybersecurity professionals to address AI-related challenges. Based on a survey of 600 cybersecurity professionals, the report highlights pressing issues related to AI regulation. AI, perceived threats, defense confidence and the future of cybersecurity.
Main findings of the survey:
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Regulatory issues: 76% of cybersecurity professionals believe AI should be “heavily regulated” to prevent abuse, highlighting the need for a balance between security and innovation.
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AI-based threats: A significant 87% of respondents expressed concerns about AI-based cyberattacks, with malware (33%) and data breaches (30%) being the top threats.
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Readiness Levels: Only 33% of professionals feel “very confident” in their current defenses, and 65% of businesses admit they are not fully prepared for AI-based attacks.
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Impact on the workforce: Despite the challenges, two-thirds of respondents feel optimistic about AI’s potential to enhance, rather than replace, cybersecurity jobs.
A call for regulation amid rapid growth in AI: The report found that 76% of professionals surveyed support “heavy regulation” of AI to mitigate potential risks. However, 15% worry that excessive oversight could stifle innovation. This highlights the need for balanced regulation that ensures safety while promoting technological progress.
Growing Concern About AI-Based Attacks: AI’s potential to enable new attack vectors is a priority for cybersecurity professionals, with 87% citing concerns about AI-generated threats. Malware and data breaches emerged as the top AI-related concerns, with 33% and 30% of respondents respectively indicating apprehension about these types of attacks.
Confidence levels are low, but hope persists: The report highlights a stark contrast in preparedness, with only 33% of respondents saying they are “very confident” in their current defenses against AI threats. Meanwhile, 46% feel “somewhat confident” and 17% admit that their organization is not ready to deal with AI-based attacks. These findings highlight an urgent call for stronger strategies and investments to strengthen AI-specific defenses.
Companies in the catching-up phase: StrongDM’s study found that 65% of respondents admitted that their organization was not fully prepared for AI threats. While 32% of companies are actively investing in AI defenses, 48% believe there is still more to do to close the gap.
Mixed impact of AI on the cybersecurity workforce: Despite concerns about AI, two-thirds of cybersecurity professionals remain optimistic about the technology’s impact on their work. 40% believe AI will enhance job roles without replacing them, and 25% anticipate the creation of new job opportunities. Nonetheless, 30% expressed fears of job replacement, demonstrating professionals’ nuanced views on the future role of AI in the workforce.
Full study results: https://www.strongdm.com/blog/state-of-ai-in-cybersecurity-report
Methodology
The report is based on a survey of 600 U.S.-based cybersecurity professionals conducted in October 2024. The survey was completed online via Pollfish and responses were random, voluntary and completely anonymous.
About StrongDM
StrongDM is at the forefront of cybersecurity, specializing in Zero Trust Privileged Access Management (PAM). Our innovative solutions focus on continuous policy-based controls that leverage actions and context to improve business security. StrongDM’s technology examines every interaction in real time, preventing breaches before they happen and ensuring secure, frustration-free access across all platforms.
Backed by leading investors including GV, Sequoia Capital, True Ventures and Anchor Capital, StrongDM operates across North America, Europe and Asia Pacific, dedicated to setting new standards in cybersecurity and providing high-level protection for today’s digital businesses.
For more information, visit StrongDM Website.
