CIO OPINION information that is used and processed . It has become imperative that this is better understood and better managed ; otherwise , organisations run the risk of information leaks , compliance breaches , and other issues around data security .
Overlap with IT
For instance , investing in training demonstrates a commitment to employee development , which fosters a positive work culture . Employees feel valued and motivated when provided with opportunities for learning and growth , to higher levels of engagement and job satisfaction .
Another thing to consider is for the business to adopt automation and artificial intelligence technologies . This helps streamline tasks and enables cybersecurity professionals to focus on complex challenges . The road to securing the cloud environment of an organisation is a complex one . But it is essential given the connected landscape in which every business operates .
The reality is that AI and automation are frequently applied to information in today ’ s world , often without our noticing or being fully aware . For example , if you use an AI platform like ChatGPT to build a document or help construct an email , which is something many people do without thinking , what information are you inputting to do this ?
If there is sensitive data like client names or company intellectual property , there is a risk of compliance breaches , as this information is now no longer under your control and could be stored , processed , and used in a way that goes against local legislation .
Even storing information in SharePoint and then using Microsoft Copilot could potentially be problematic , as the AI servers may be located outside of your jurisdiction , and this may breach laws that your company is required to adhere to .
AI risk management
While AI has many applications and benefits , and businesses are exploring its use in a variety of ways , there is also a level of risk involved , particularly when it comes to the data that AI uses . Risk management around AI is critical for any business , whether you have an AI strategy or not , because AI , simply put , is everywhere .
Having an international standard in place to manage the long-term risk of AI is critical , especially in light of companies like OpenAI recently disbanding their longterm risk team .
The need for this is highlighted by the introduction of ISO 42001 standard in December 2023 . ISO 42001 provides organisations with best practices for governing AI effectively , with formalised standards around AI management systems and a focus on understanding the risk of AI . It offers a comprehensive approach to managing AI systems throughout their lifecycle .
While ISO 42001 is a separate standard and certification , it is also intrinsically linked to ISO 27001 , which is the standard for information security , because AI relies on data to perform its functions .
It is therefore impossible to effectively manage AI without addressing information management systems
If there is an information breach , the potential implications could be dire . Organisations need to be aware of how to manage the risks around AI when it comes to their information , and this needs to form an intrinsic part of both compliance and cybersecurity strategy .
AI aware
Information and information security are no longer just an IT problem ; everyone uses information , and it is critical that it is managed and protected effectively .
From an organisational perspective , this means businesses need to be aware of what AI tools are out there and freely available , what is being used in the company , how to manage potential risk , and , importantly , where it fits in with their overall security strategy .
The borders between roles and responsibilities are blurring , and both information and compliance officers need to understand how AI is being used and ensure appropriate security controls are in place .
While becoming certified on ISO standards is not a legal requirement , they do provide excellent frameworks to guide the process of risk mitigation and to ensure that effective , holistic information and cybersecurity strategies are in place . p
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