Cyber-attacks are on the rise like never before, in the northwest alone an incredible 44% of SMEs were victims of cyber-crime last year. The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is driving much of the increase in attacks, so today we look at the rise of AI in cyber-crime and what SME’s can do quickly to protect themselves.

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, so do the risks of cyber-attacks. AI-driven cyber-attacks are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect, and with almost 50% of attacks targeting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) it is essential they take proactive measures to protect themselves.

One of the biggest risks of AI-driven cyber-attacks is the ability to automate attacks at scale. Attackers can use AI to scan for vulnerabilities, identify targets, and launch attacks without human intervention. This means that attacks can happen faster and more frequently, making it harder for SMEs to keep up.

Another risk is the use of AI to create convincing phishing emails. Attackers can use AI to create emails that look like they are from a trusted source, making it easier to trick employees into clicking on malicious links or downloading malware. This can lead to data breaches, ransomware attacks, and other common types of cyber-attack.

To protect themselves from AI-driven cyber-attacks, SMEs need to implement a combination of good practice controls and AI-driven defences. Here are a few essential steps they can take:

Train employees in cyber security awareness

An effective way to protect the organisation is to train employees on cybersecurity best practices. This includes teaching them how to identify phishing emails, how to create strong passwords, and how to avoid downloading malware. By educating employees, SMEs can reduce the risk of human error and make it harder for attackers to gain access to their systems.

Implement multi-factor authentication

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) forces an extra layer of authentication before accessing a system. This can include something they know (a password), something they have (like a security token), or something they are (like a fingerprint). By implementing MFA, SMEs can make it harder for attackers to gain access to their systems, even if they have stolen a user’s password.

Use AI-driven threat detection and response

AI-driven threat detection can help SMEs detect and respond to cyber-attacks fast and effectively. This technology uses machine learning algorithms to analyse network traffic, identify anomalies, and alert security teams to potential threats. By using AI-driven threat detection, SMEs can prevent attacks, and the time it takes to detect and respond to attacks, minimising the damage they can cause when they do happen.

Conduct regular vulnerability assessments

Regular vulnerability assessments can help SMEs identify and address security weaknesses before they can be exploited by attackers. This involves scanning systems and networks for vulnerabilities, prioritising the most critical ones, and taking steps to address them. By conducting regular vulnerability assessments, SMEs can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and ensure that their systems are secure.

Keep software and systems up to date

Keeping software and systems up to date is essential for protecting against AI-driven cyber-attacks. This includes installing security patches and updates as soon as they become available. Attackers often target known vulnerabilities in outdated software, so keeping systems up to date can help SMEs stay one step ahead of attackers.

In conclusion

AI-driven cyber-attacks are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect, making it essential for SMEs to take proactive measures to protect themselves. By implementing a blend of good practice controls and AI-driven defences, SMEs can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks and ensure that their systems are secure. Taking these steps outlined here as a starting point, SMEs can protect themselves from the growing threat of AI-driven cyber-attacks and ensure the safety of their business and customers.