The Impact of AI on Modern Cybersecurity Practices

02 October 2025

Artificial intelligence is redefining cybersecurity faster than any other system. Now it's more than a tool for defenders. Attackers use AI to automate breaches, crack passwords in seconds and launch precisely targeted threats. At the same time, security teams are utilising AI to spot anomalies, strengthen defences and react quicker than ever before. This double-edged shift is changing the game for every organisation. In this post, we discuss just how AI is changing cybersecurity, the new risks it brings along and real life methods businesses can use to stay in front of the curve. Find out why penetration testing as well as cybersecurity awareness training are now a necessity, not a luxury, when it comes to your digital assets.

AI’s Role in Cyber Security

AI has become a sword in cybersecurity. It provides businesses tools to detect and stop threats, but it gives attackers new ways to exploit vulnerabilities. 77% of companies use or explore AI for efficiency, but 46% trust AI systems fully. For businesses, the key to staying secure is balancing AI benefits with AI risks.

• Defensive Power: AI processes and analyses huge amounts of data and finds anomalies much faster than humans do. Microsoft claims AI-driven systems can shorten detection times by 50%.
• Offensive Threats: Cybercriminals increasingly use AI to amplify phishing campaigns, create realistic deepfakes and create smarter malware that is harder to detect.
• Compliance Needs: Companies must secure AI use or face  a maximum of £17.5 million in fines in the UK under GDPR.
• Scalability: AI scales defences for small businesses, making enterprise-grade security available.
• Human Factor: 74% of chief information security officers (CISOs) highlighted human error as the top cybersecurity risk, according to IBM.

Understanding AI's dual role helps build a secure strategy. Businesses must use their strengths and avoid their dangers.

Key Risks of AI in Cyber Security

AI attacks amplify traditional threats and create new ones. Knowing these dangers puts emphasis on defences like penetration testing for finding weaknesses.

• Data Leakage: Public AI tools like ChatGPT store customer data or intellectual property as inputs for training.
• AI-Powered Attacks: Cybercriminals now craft convincing phishing emails or deepfake videos where 60% of phishing attacks are now AI-generated.
• Model Poisoning: Attackers change AI training data, producing faulty outputs/backdoors.
• Shadow AI: Employees who use unapproved AI tools bypass security, with 43% of businesses using shadow AI. 
• Automated Exploits: Bots scanning networks for vulnerabilities break out in under an hour, CrowdStrike says.
• Regulatory Risks: Handling AI data improperly can violate GDPR / ISO 27001 and result in fines or reputation damage.

These risks call for an individual solution. Regular penetration testing identifies weaknesses before attackers, and policies prevent misuse. 

Protecting Your Business Against AI Risks

Addressing AI risk means having clear policy, sharp tools and educated employees. Secure your operations with these foundational steps. These safe AI uses minimise exposure.

• Ban Sensitive Data in Public AI Tools: Stop sharing confidential data on platforms like Gemini. Use enterprise solutions like Microsoft Copilot that include data protection built in.
• Implement Strong Access Controls: Implement multi-factor authentication to block 99% of account compromises, Microsoft says.
• Update Software Promptly: Patch systems to close vulnerabilities. 60% of breaches use old software. 
• Encrypt Data: Protect data at rest and during transport to prevent unauthorised access.
• Develop AI Policies: Defining approved tools and data-sharing rules. Make clear policies to avoid shadow AI.

These steps build a defence. Combining them with training and advanced tools gives you complete protection.

Empowering Employees with Cyber Security Awareness Training

Employees are your first defence against AI-driven threats. Regular cyber security awareness training helps them spot risks. Make training practical and ongoing, thereby building a watchful workforce.

• Phishing Recognition: Train staff to spot AI-generated phishing emails & deepfake scams. Real-world examples help.
• Safe AI Practices: Teach employees to ignore public AI tools for sensitive work. Leakage risks of data should be highlighted.
• Reporting Protocols: Promote immediate reporting of suspicious activity, free of penalty.
• Simulated Attacks: Run mock phishing or social engineering tests to improve response rates.
• Regular Updates: Share monthly updates about new AI threats to increase awareness.
• Role-Specific Focus: Tailor training for targeted attacks in high-risk roles such as finance or IT.

Cyber security awareness training reduces human error. The sole reason for 90% of breaches. A trained team strengthens your overall security posture. 

Using AI to Strengthen Cyber Security

AI is your long-term partner, not a threat. Businesses can detect and respond to attacks in fewer steps with AI than traditional methods. For proactive defence, tools like Microsoft Defender and Security Copilot use AI.

• Real-Time Threat Detection: AI looks for anomalies in seconds on billions of signals daily.
• Automated Response: Isolate infected devices or block threats instantly to stop damage spreading.
• Predictive Models: Risks can be forecasted on historical data allowing preemptive action.
• Identity Protection: Tools like Microsoft Entra use AI for contextual authentication & access security.
• Scalable Defences: AI makes enterprise security accessible to small businesses.

AI tools help you counter AI attacks. Regular penetration testing ensures they work.

Renaissance: Your Partner in AI-Driven Cyber Security

In this guide, we have highlighted how AI both enhances defences and creates risks such as data leaks and AI-powered attacks. You can defend your organisation against AI enabled threats through penetration testing, cybersecurity awareness training and more targeted strategies. At Renaissance Computer Services, we’ve spent over 28 years helping businesses stay secure. Ready to secure your business? Contact us for penetration testing and cyber security awareness training. Build a strategy to keep you safe & competitive.