AI in Cybersecurity: CISOs Redesign Security Strategy for AI-Native Enterprise Operations

Artificial intelligence is no longer simply a revolutionary concept. It is now eternally linked to everyday business processes across industries. At a recent technology event, experts explored how AI in corporate security is transforming the way businesses operate. For Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs), the message was clear that security strategies must adapt to an AI-driven environment.

One significant theme was sovereign artificial intelligence and data control. Leaders addressed data localization, digital independence, and trusted technological ecosystems. This means that corporations must closely monitor where AI data is stored and how it moves across borders. To meet new regulatory requirements, security teams must audit AI data flows and monitor third-party AI vendors.

Another major topic was responsible AI governance. Experts stated that AI governance is no longer limited to ethics. It now incorporates comprehensive audit trails, transparency, bias testing, as well as defined accountability. For CISOs, this involves combining logging and monitoring tools directly into AI platforms. AI systems must be traceable and investigatable if something goes wrong.

Enterprise AI copilots were also mentioned. These AI solutions are now integrated with business software such as ERP, CRM, and productivity applications. However, copilots frequently use the same permissions as employees. AI agents may pose security vulnerabilities if their identities and access are not properly managed. Experts highlighted that AI identities, like human users, must adhere to Zero Trust security principles. Case studies in healthcare, finance, and public services demonstrated how AI models are utilized for prediction and decision-making. However, this presents security risks for AI models. Model tampering, data poisoning, and manipulation are all serious risks. Security teams must constantly test AI models and keep an eye out for unexpected behavior. AI is also being applied in the cybersecurity field. AI-powered threat detection tools provide faster response to threats. However, attackers use AI to conduct deepfake scams and complex phishing attacks. This causes a digital arms race.

Finally, AI discussions have reached the boardrooms. Companies today view AI as both a growth opportunity and a security risk. As a result, AI risk management is becoming a component of strategic business planning. The main message is simple that in today's AI-powered world, cybersecurity must be reimagined to safeguard data, systems, and trust.

This article is based on information from ET CISO