Report raises exploitation concerns of gen AI by bad actors

Business and IT professionals say they are worried about how bad actors could potentially exploit generative AI, but according to research by professional association ISACA only a quarter perceive AI-related risks as an immediate priority.

ISACA, the leading global professional association helping individuals and organisations in their pursuit of digital trust, has launched new research looking at the use, risk and impact of generative AI. 

Of those surveyed, 99% say they are worried, to some extent, about the potential exploitation of generative AI by bad actors. Furthermore, 74% believe that cybercriminals are harnessing AI with equal or even greater success than digital trust professionals. 

However, these growing fears have not translated into widespread action as only a quarter (28%) of respondents perceive AI-related risks as an immediate priority.  A mere 10% of organisations have formal, comprehensive policies in place governing the use of AI technology, and 29% have no policy, and no plans to implement one at all.  

"In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, AI will play a key role in transforming industries as a whole. Holistic digital trust framework implementations are a prerequisite to enjoying the benefits of AI in a more secure, privacy-friendly, ethically acceptable and risk-controlled manner," said Chris Dimitriadis, Global Chief Strategy Officer at ISACA.

Lacking training to cope with rise in AI

Despite the clear concerns associated with AI, just 7% of organisations are providing all employees with AI training. One in 10 (10%) business and IT professionals think job responsibilities within their organisations have already increased due to advancements in generative AI, and this is set to increase, as nearly four in five (79%) agree that many jobs will be modified by AI in the next five years.  

Businesses are starting to acknowledge the rise of AI, with almost one in five (19%) increasing the number of jobs for AI-related functions in the next 12 months. They’re also aware of the potential benefits it brings, with respondents feeling it will have a positive impact on their industry (60%), their organisation (54%) and their career (46%), over the next 5 years. 

“Business and IT professionals are aware of the potential positive impact of AI, but to reap the benefits they must ensure the staff in their organisations are trained on how to use AI effectively and safely,” ISACA CEO, Erik Prusch, added. “By providing comprehensive training as part of an overarching AI strategy, businesses can stay ahead of the curve and ensure the safety and security of their operations while promoting long-term business success.”

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