Generative AI has become a significant technological advancement, rapidly gaining popularity with both businesses and consumers. 72% of organizations have adopted generative AI in business functions and 65% of employees use it in at least one function of their work. This widespread adoption is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.
This explosion in AI usage brings numerous benefits, but also poses serious risks, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), such as data breaches, compromised identities, intellectual property loss, and more.
With rising use cases of generative AI-related data breaches, that compromise identities, expose sensitive information, or infringe on IP or privacy rights, it’s more important than ever for SMBs to have the right security tips and tools in place. By collaborating with a Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO), implementing strong policies, and utilizing the right tools, SMBs can protect themselves from the unforeseen consequences of generative AI.
In the following sections, we’ll break down what vCISOs and SMBs can do together to safeguard their businesses from these emerging threats.
SMBs: Find the right security partner
For SMBs supplementing in-house security personnel with a vCISO, can be a cost-effective solution to enhancing your security posture. A vCISO is an outsourced security expert who provides strategic guidance on cybersecurity without the need for a full-time, in-house CISO. A vCISO brings expert knowledge and experience to help your company develop and implement a robust cybersecurity strategy. They can assess risks, manage compliance requirements, and ensure that your company stays ahead of emerging threats.
To find a qualified vCISO, use the vCISO directory, which lists professionals who specialize in various industries and can tailor their services to meet your specific needs.
vCISOs & SMBs: Implement the right policies
For SMBs working in partnership with a vCISO, it’s essential to ensure that security policies are implemented and maintained correctly to help mitigate risks associated with generative AI.
These tasks are a good first start to take on together to strengthen data security:
- Educate and train employees: Ensure all employees understand the risks associated with generative AI and are trained to use it responsibly.
- Implement robust authentication protocols: Use multi-factor authentication to secure systems associated with generative AI.
- Use secure and trusted tools: vCISOs can guide SMBs in selecting reputable and well-vetted AI tools to avoid security risks from untrusted sources.
- Regularly update software: Keep all software, including AI tools, up-to-date to protect against vulnerabilities.
- Secure sensitive data: vCISOs can encrypt sensitive information and work with SMBs to enforce strict data handling policies.
- Ensure safe usage of AI outputs: vCISOs can help SMBs establish guidelines for using AI-generated content responsibly and monitor compliance.
vCISOs: Implement the right technologies and tools
For vCISOs, having the right tools and technologies can be the difference between good and great cyber security. These tools and technologies are a great addition to a vCISO’s toolkit to keep organizations secure.
- Cadea: Provides data security and role-based access control for AI.
- CalypsoAI: Offers independent testing and validation of large language models (LLMs) and protection from LLM threats.
- Cynomi: A comprehensive platform your vCISO can use to streamline cybersecurity tasks, including risk assessments, compliance readiness, and the creation of tailored security policies and remediation plans.
- Lasso Security: Safeguards every touchpoint with generative AI and LLMs.
- LLMShield: Prevents leaks of company secrets via public LLMs and AI chatbots.
- ProtectAI: Conducts security scans on ML and AI applications.
- TrojAI: Assesses, measures, and tracks AI/ML/LLM model risks and vulnerabilities.
Navigating the AI landscape safely
Generative AI is here to stay, offering immense benefits but also posing significant risks. For SMBs, working with a trusted vCISO partner is essential to safely navigate this evolving landscape. By partnering with a vCISO, SMBs can implement robust security measures, educate employees on AI-related risks, and leverage specialized tools to mitigate potential threats.
To find a vCISO who can help you navigate these challenges, visit the vCISO directory or follow the vCISO directory on LinkedIn to stay up to date on all things cybersecurity with vCISOs.