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AI security is a growing concern in the Asia Pacific region. Adopting the cloud, the Internet of Things (IoT), the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD), vulnerabilities in IT systems, and insider threats have led to a fast-evolving threat landscape, and AI is seen as a critical tool to help organisations cope with these challenges.
In the journey to enhancing digital security, New Zealand’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and CERT NZ, in collaboration with the Australian Signals Directorate’s Australian Cyber Security Centre (ASD’s ACSC) and twelve other international cybersecurity agencies, have unveiled a joint product titled “Engaging with Artificial Intelligence.” This initiative aims to provide organisations with comprehensive guidance on utilising AI systems securely, shedding light on potential threats and offering mitigation strategies for future cybersecurity.
The joint product comes at a crucial juncture when integrating artificial intelligence into various aspects of business and society is rapidly advancing. As AI technologies become increasingly pervasive, so do the associated risks and vulnerabilities. Engaging with Artificial Intelligence seeks to address these concerns by equipping organisations with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complex landscape of AI security.
The publication serves as a consolidated resource, summarising critical threats related to AI systems. It encourages organisations to assess their AI engagement strategies while managing associated risks. Notably, the joint product focuses on using AI systems securely rather than solely on developing secure AI systems, acknowledging the widespread adoption of AI technologies across different sectors.
One of the primary objectives of Engaging with Artificial Intelligence is to raise awareness about the potential security challenges posed by AI systems. By outlining specific threats, such as data breaches, adversarial attacks, and exploitation of vulnerabilities, the guidelines prompt organisations to critically evaluate their existing AI infrastructure. This approach is essential in safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring the integrity of AI-driven processes.
The joint product also addresses the diverse deployment scenarios of AI systems, catering to organisations using both self-hosted and third-party-hosted AI solutions. By recognising the varying degrees of control and responsibility in these setups, the guidelines offer tailored mitigations to assist organisations in fortifying their AI implementations. This inclusivity reflects a holistic approach to AI security, acknowledging the diverse technological landscapes in which these systems operate.
Engaging with Artificial Intelligence further emphasises the importance of collaboration in cybersecurity. By involving national agencies like NCSC and CERT NZ and international partners, the joint product leverages collective expertise to create robust guidelines. The collaboration with ASD’s ACSC and a dozen other global cybersecurity agencies underscores the global nature of the AI security challenge and the necessity for a unified response.
The release of these guidelines is timely, given the frequency and intricacy of cyber threats targeting AI systems. As organisations increasingly rely on AI for critical functions, ensuring the security of these systems is paramount. The joint product is a measure to empower organisations to fortify their defences against emerging threats and vulnerabilities.
The guidance provided in Engaging with Artificial Intelligence extends beyond technical considerations, emphasising the importance of organisational policies and practices. It encourages a comprehensive approach to AI security, encompassing technological measures, governance frameworks, employee training, and incident response planning.
The collaborative effort between New Zealand’s NCSC, CERT NZ, Australia’s ASD’s ACSC, and other international cybersecurity agencies signifies a concerted global commitment to addressing the security challenges associated with artificial intelligence. Engaging with Artificial Intelligence stands as a testament to the proactive stance taken by these agencies to empower organisations worldwide in securely navigating the AI landscape. As AI continues to evolve and permeate diverse sectors, these guidelines are crucial in fostering a secure and resilient digital future.