Keepnet’s CEO Highlights AI’s Dual Role in Cybersecurity on Cybercrime Magazine

In cybersecurity, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) stands out as both an essential defense and a potent threat. Our CEO, Ozan Ucar, recently shared his perspective in an insightful interview featured in Cybercrime Magazine’s latest documentary. This publication is known for its thorough examination of cybersecurity trends, and Ucar’s contribution was part of a larger discussion on AI's impact on cybercrime and cyber defense.

Watch the documentary below to see how our CEO, Ozan Ucar, discusses the dual role of AI in cybersecurity, human risks, and modern threats like deepfakes.

The Growing Threat Landscape

According to Cybersecurity Ventures, global cybercrime costs are predicted to soar to $10.5 trillion annually by 2025. This rapid escalation reflects the increasing sophistication of cyber-attacks, many of which now leverage AI for maximum efficiency. Cybercriminals are deploying AI-driven tools to automate attacks, adapt strategies in real-time, and exploit system vulnerabilities more effectively than ever before.

The Two Faces of AI in Cybersecurity

Ucar emphasized that AI is a double-edged sword in the realm of cybersecurity. While AI-driven tools have become instrumental for cybercriminals, they are equally critical for those defending against such threats. “AI has transformed cybersecurity, creating new challenges and new solutions,” Ucar stated. “It empowers both sides; it's up to us to leverage it for the greater good.”

On the offensive side, attackers use AI to conduct automated reconnaissance, initiate highly targeted spear-phishing campaigns, and bypass security measures. However, the defensive potential of AI cannot be overstated. Machine learning algorithms can process massive data sets to identify anomalous behavior that signals a potential breach.

For companies, integrating these tools alongside security awareness training programs, such as our Phishing Simulator, can help teams stay ahead of AI-powered attacks.

The Expertise Gap in Cybersecurity

One of the challenges highlighted by Ucar and discussed by Anand Jethalia, as referenced in Cybercrime Magazine, is the shortage of qualified cybersecurity professionals. With projections estimating 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity jobs by 2025, the demand for skilled personnel far outpaces the supply. This gap intensifies the importance of using AI not just for automation but as an enhancement to human capabilities.

Ucar pointed out, “The key is using AI to complement and expand the reach of our teams. This means training employees through platforms that replicate real-world scenarios and enhance their ability to respond effectively.”

Utilizing AI to Strengthen Cyber Defenses

Despite these hurdles, organizations can harness AI's power to build robust defensive frameworks. Tools powered by deep learning can analyze billions of data points at speeds unmatched by human analysts, enhancing threat detection. Ucar shared, “Strategic use of AI means being proactive, not just reactive. It allows companies to anticipate moves before attackers make them.”

This strategy aligns with Cybersecurity Ventures’ view on AI's growing importance in the cybersecurity landscape. By integrating AI-driven tools like our Keepnet Human Risk Management Platform, organizations can ensure that CISOs and IT leaders remain at the forefront of defense efforts.

The Ongoing Battle: AI vs. AI

In his interview, Ucar painted a picture of the future—an arms race where AI capabilities on both sides of the cyber battle will evolve rapidly. “The reality is AI will continue to advance. It’s up to us to stay adaptable and maintain a strong defensive posture through collaboration and innovation,” he said.

Companies that wish to stay protected should prioritize collaborative defense strategies, leveraging AI to enhance threat intelligence and employee awareness. Platforms like Security Awareness Training and Phishing Simulators are indispensable in educating teams to recognize and respond to AI-driven attacks effectively.

Importance of Human Risk Management Solutions

Ozan Ucar’s speech and contribution to Cybercrime Magazine’s documentary emphasize that while AI plays a significant role in cybersecurity, the human factor remains equally vital. Cybercriminals leverage AI to enhance their attacks, but defenses that incorporate human risk management solutions provide a stronger, more comprehensive barrier. Addressing the human element in cybersecurity is essential because human errors or lapses in judgment often serve as entry points for even the most sophisticated attacks.

Ucar stressed that proactive human risk management includes not only deploying AI-powered tools but also enhancing employee training and awareness. Platforms that offer Security Awareness Training and tools like Phishing Simulators help employees recognize and respond effectively to AI-driven phishing and social engineering tactics. These programs create a culture of cybersecurity awareness, making it more challenging for attackers to exploit human vulnerabilities.

“An effective cybersecurity strategy is one that seamlessly combines technology and human insight,” Ucar explained. By investing in solutions that focus on human behavior and continuous learning, organizations can reduce risk and stay ahead of threats. Leveraging platforms like the Keepnet Human Risk Management Platform empowers companies to benchmark and improve their employees' cyber readiness, ensuring that security is strengthened from all angles.

Stay ahead of evolving threats by incorporating human risk management solutions that bolster employee resilience and utilize AI-enhanced strategies for comprehensive defense.