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When Algorithms Meet Shadows: The Hidden Business Impact of AI
The AI revolution is here, and it's already reshaping how businesses operate—whether you're aware of it or not. In this eye-opening conversation with cybersecurity expert Chris Haigh, we explore the startling reality that approximately 70% of employees are currently using AI tools without their company's knowledge or approval.
We dive deep into the cybersecurity implications of this "shadow AI" phenomenon and why it represents a significant risk to your business. When employees feed company proprietary information or personally identifiable data into free AI models, this sensitive information can be used to train the models, potentially making it accessible to others. Even with paid versions of tools like ChatGPT, your data might still be training models unless you specifically change the default settings—a crucial tip that many business leaders miss.
The discussion examines AI's dual nature as both a potential security threat—enabling more convincing phishing attempts—and a powerful tool for enhancing security operations. Before implementing AI solutions, businesses need thorough preparatory work including proper data classification, permission settings, and information governance. Without these foundations, AI tools might inadvertently expose sensitive information or bypass security controls.
While most executives (78%) acknowledge that AI will be necessary for business growth, only 48% believe their organisations are prepared—and even that figure likely overestimates actual readiness. Chris outlines essential elements of an AI strategy that business leaders should prioritise developing before year-end, including auditing current usage, implementing appropriate policies, and providing adequate training.
Register for Chris's upcoming live event on AI readiness to receive practical advice on building an AI strategy.
Access the free AI readiness assessment tool, and an AI usage policy template for your business here
Don't wait until you're falling behind—now is the time to understand and prepare for AI's transformative impact on your organisation.
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By Mercury ITThe AI revolution is here, and it's already reshaping how businesses operate—whether you're aware of it or not. In this eye-opening conversation with cybersecurity expert Chris Haigh, we explore the startling reality that approximately 70% of employees are currently using AI tools without their company's knowledge or approval.
We dive deep into the cybersecurity implications of this "shadow AI" phenomenon and why it represents a significant risk to your business. When employees feed company proprietary information or personally identifiable data into free AI models, this sensitive information can be used to train the models, potentially making it accessible to others. Even with paid versions of tools like ChatGPT, your data might still be training models unless you specifically change the default settings—a crucial tip that many business leaders miss.
The discussion examines AI's dual nature as both a potential security threat—enabling more convincing phishing attempts—and a powerful tool for enhancing security operations. Before implementing AI solutions, businesses need thorough preparatory work including proper data classification, permission settings, and information governance. Without these foundations, AI tools might inadvertently expose sensitive information or bypass security controls.
While most executives (78%) acknowledge that AI will be necessary for business growth, only 48% believe their organisations are prepared—and even that figure likely overestimates actual readiness. Chris outlines essential elements of an AI strategy that business leaders should prioritise developing before year-end, including auditing current usage, implementing appropriate policies, and providing adequate training.
Register for Chris's upcoming live event on AI readiness to receive practical advice on building an AI strategy.
Access the free AI readiness assessment tool, and an AI usage policy template for your business here
Don't wait until you're falling behind—now is the time to understand and prepare for AI's transformative impact on your organisation.