Generative AI at the ISC2 Security Congress: A Game Changer in Cybersecurity
At the recent ISC2 Security Congress conference in Las Vegas in October 2024, generative AI took center stage. The question on everyone’s mind was: How will generative AI revolutionize the capabilities of both attackers and defenders in the cybersecurity realm?
Alex Stamos, the Chief Information Security Officer at SentinelOne and a prominent professor of computer science at Stanford University, sat down with TechRepublic to delve into the key cybersecurity concerns facing professionals today. In this insightful interview, Stamos explores the potential of AI to both aid and hinder security efforts, while also offering valuable insights on optimizing cybersecurity strategies during Cybersecurity Awareness Month.
When Small or Medium Businesses Encounter Large Attackers
TechRepublic: What is the primary concern for cybersecurity professionals in today’s landscape?
Stamos: The crux of the issue lies in the fact that most organizations lack the necessary resources to combat the level of adversaries they are up against. Small and medium-sized businesses often find themselves pitted against financially motivated attackers who have honed their skills by targeting large enterprises. These adversaries are adept at breaching companies, making it challenging for organizations to defend themselves effectively. The disparity in skills and resources between defenders and attackers poses a significant challenge across all levels of the industry.
While larger enterprises can build robust security teams, they still face formidable adversaries such as the Russian SVR or the Chinese PLA and MSS. Matching the scale and sophistication of these high-end adversaries remains a daunting task. The mismatch between the capabilities of security teams and the threats they face underscores the need for innovative solutions and enhanced cybersecurity measures.
Defenders Harnessing Generative AI for An Edge
TechRepublic: Can generative AI be a game-changer in empowering adversaries?
Stamos: Currently, AI technology has predominantly benefitted defenders, thanks to investments in research and development. SentinelOne, for instance, leverages generative AI to enhance detection capabilities and streamline Security Operations Centers (SOCs). The use of AI empowers defenders to query systems in plain language, simplifying the process of identifying potential threats.
While attackers are beginning to incorporate AI into their strategies, they have yet to fully exploit its potential. The challenge lies in AI’s ability to produce structured outputs, particularly in creating exploits. However, ongoing research aims to address these limitations and explore the broader applications of AI in cybersecurity.
Managing Risks Associated with Generative AI
TechRepublic: What risks arise from deploying generative AI in cybersecurity, and how can these risks be mitigated?
Stamos: The key concern revolves around hyper-automation and orchestration, where AI operates autonomously without human oversight. While supervised AI poses minimal risks, autonomous decision-making by AI systems can lead to errors and vulnerabilities. It is crucial to strike a balance between leveraging AI for efficiency and ensuring human oversight to prevent potential mishaps.
Cybersecurity Awareness Month: Making Security Fun
TechRepublic: As we celebrate Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October, what strategies can organizations employ to enhance employee awareness and behavior?
Stamos: Cybersecurity Awareness Month presents an opportunity to engage employees through interactive activities and gamification. Creating a positive and enjoyable experience around security training can foster a culture of vigilance and collaboration within the organization. By incorporating rewards, competitions, and informative sessions, cybersecurity teams can effectively communicate the significance of cybersecurity best practices to employees.
Ultimately, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and transparency regarding cybersecurity threats is essential in building a resilient defense against evolving cyber threats.
Disclaimer: ISC2 sponsored Alex Stamos’ attendance at the ISC2 Security Congress event in Las Vegas from Oct. 13-16.