AI is taking us on an incredible journey where every day feels like we’re stepping into a sci-fi movie. This journey is certainly helping organisations optimise themselves and to move forward faster – however there needs to be the right balance between the freedom of AI, and reducing the risk of opening cyber security cracks.

This article will run you through some of the recent AI advancements in various industries, plus a guide of how to roll-out and monitor your AI toolkits.

The Untapped Potential of AI

AI has been having huge impacts across multiple sectors in 2023 and 2024. This has generated discussion from “we’re all becoming lazy” to “our team can solve problems tens to hundreds of times faster than before”.

AI in the Health Industry

AI is changing the game in healthcare. From predicting health risks before they happen, to making patient care smoother and faster, it’s like having a futuristic doctor’s assistant. And it’s not just about treating patients; AI helps hospitals run more efficiently and even makes it easier to stay in touch with patients.

AI in the Construction Industry

Imagine construction projects that run smoothly, without the usual delays and budget nightmares. AI is making that a reality, improving safety, planning, and even predicting how long projects will take.

AI in the Education Sector

Education is getting a major upgrade thanks to AI. It’s personalising learning so that every student gets what they need, making teachers’ lives easier by handling routine tasks, and giving insights into how students are doing in real time. It’s like having a super tutor for every student.

Navigating the Risks

As exciting as AI’s benefits are, we’ve got to be aware of the risks. Integrating AI into organisations comes with its own set of challenges, and it’s crucial to address these head-on to make the most of AI safely.

Data Poisoning

This is when bad data gets into AI systems, leading to wrong decisions. It’s like feeding a computer lies, and then it starts making decisions based on those lies.

Input Manipulation

This happens when someone tricks an AI system into misinterpreting something, which could lead to security breaches or just plain wrong outcomes.

Intellectual Property Theft

AI can be a treasure trove for thieves. They might steal AI models to peek into a company’s secrets or even copy their services.

The Essential 8: Your AI Security Toolkit

To keep AI working for you without the hiccups, we recommend following the Australian Government’s Cyber Security toolkit named The Essential 8. The Essential  8 is a structure that organisations can follow, to ensure they meet specific cyber security requirements. If you haven’t done so already , read our article which outlines Essential Eight and how it compares to other cyber security frameworks.

Keeping an Eye on Things

Monitoring AI systems is key. You’ve got to have a way to keep track of what’s happening, spot when something’s not right, and have a good look at the logs if there’s an issue. Think of it as having security cameras that help you catch problems before they get out of hand.

Leadership Matters

Leaders have to be on their toes with AI. It’s not just about using new tech; it’s about making sure it’s used in a way that’s safe, ethical, and smart. Leading in the AI era means being aware of the risks, staying up to date, and always aiming for the highest security standards.

Strategically Secure

Tying AI security to your business strategy is a no-brainer. It’s about building a culture where security is part of everything you do, making sure your AI initiatives are safe, and keeping your business strong in the digital age.

AI’s journey is thrilling, and with the right precautions, the sky’s the limit. Secure and ethical AI use isn’t just good practice; it’s essential for thriving in today’s world.