12 December 2024 - Cyberattacks continue to rise. According to ISACA, 38% of surveyed organisations experienced an increase in cyber-attacks compared to the previous year. Top attack types include social engineering, malware, unpatched systems, and Denial of Service - all hugely costly for businesses both in terms of productivity loss and finances. Furthermore, the same study shows that while more than half expect a cyberattack on their organisation in the next year, only 40% have a high degree of confidence in their team’s ability to detect and respond to cyber threats.
The continued increase of attacks paired with a lack of confidence, highlights the urgent need for faster and more intelligent solutions to safeguard sensitive data and digital ecosystems. As cyber threats evolve in sophistication, so must the strategies to combat them. That’s where AI in cybersecurity enters the picture, an innovation that’s not just transforming how we think about protection but is actively redefining real-time security measures. AI technology is enabling organisations to identify, analyse, and neutralise threats before they cause damage, making it a game-changer in the field.
But how does this leap in cybersecurity innovation work, and what does it mean for businesses and individuals? Security products like those fromESET—offering AI-driven solutions for cybersecurity threats, demonstrate how real-time threat detection with AI is becoming a cornerstone of modern security strategies.
The Rise of AI in Cybersecurity
AI’s application in cybersecurity isn’t just a technological advancement, it’s a necessity. Traditional threat detection methods, while effective for static threats, often fall short against rapidly evolving attacks like zero-day exploits or advanced persistent threats (APTs). Cybercriminals are employing AI-driven techniques themselves, creating malware that adapts and learns, leaving organisations struggling to keep up.
With AI-driven cybersecurity tools, such as those integrated into ESET’s security technologies, individuals and organisations gain the ability to detect and respond to threats almost instantly. This involves analysing vast amounts of real-time data to uncover patterns, anomalies, and potential vulnerabilities. For example, ESET’s AI-powered tools combine machine learning with behaviour-based detection to identify cyber threats even before they’re known to the cybersecurity community.
How AI Enhances Real-Time Threat Detection
AI’s ability to process and analyse large datasets quickly is at the heart of its success in real-time threat detection. By continuously monitoring network traffic, user behaviours, and system processes, AI can spot irregularities that would otherwise go unnoticed. For instance, if an AI system identifies a sudden and unusual spike in outbound data transfer from an organisation’s server, it can flag the activity as suspicious and initiate immediate measures.
This level of responsiveness is critical for protecting data with AI in real time. Unlike manual threat monitoring, AI-driven solutions are tireless, analysing threats 24/7 without human error or delay.
According to a few studies, approximately 90% of cyber incidents are due to human error. For example, CybSafe analysis of data from the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) found that 90% of data breaches were caused by user error in 2019. The World Economic Forum's 2022 Global Risks Report stated that 95% of cybersecurity incidents occur due to human error.
ESET’s Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) utilise AI technology to streamline automated threat detection and response, ensuring continuous protection across devices.
AI-Driven Response: Faster and Smarter Reactions
The true value of AI in cybersecurity lies not just in identifying threats but in responding to them effectively. How does AI-driven threat detection work in real time? When a potential threat is detected, AI can automatically quarantine the affected system, isolate malicious files, or block unauthorised access, all without waiting for human intervention.
For example, in a ransomware attack, milliseconds matter. AI-driven solutions for cybersecurity threats can detect encryption activity, terminate the process, and restore files from backups in real time. ESET’s advanced AI security systems exemplify this efficiency, employing machine learning to enhance cybersecurity with AI technology while reducing response times.
Challenges of Implementing AI in Cybersecurity
While AI has revolutionised cybersecurity practices, its adoption isn’t without challenges. One key hurdle is the risk of false positives. An overly cautious AI system may mistakenly flag legitimate activity as malicious, leading to unnecessary disruptions. Striking the right balance between sensitivity and accuracy requires fine-tuning and constant learning. ESET has been pioneering machine learning in the cybersecurity space for more than 30 years, while ESET LiveGrid, our cloud reputation system, utilises data from ESET users worldwide and enables us to react immediately to the latest threats.
Another challenge lies in the cost of implementation. Advanced AI solutions require significant investment in terms of infrastructure and expertise. However, as cyber threats grow more costly—IBM estimates the average data breach costs $4.45 million in 2023—the benefits of AI in real-time security solutions far outweigh the initial expense.
ESET’s Protect Platform ranges from Protect Entry through to Protect MDR Ultimate, to cater to your business's budget.
The Role of Automation in AI Security
Security automation with AI is revolutionising cybersecurity, providing a proactive approach that complements traditional reactive measures. Automation allows for real-time cybersecurity measures using AI, enabling systems to preemptively neutralise threats before they escalate. AI-driven protection measures also reduce the workload for cybersecurity teams, allowing them to focus on strategic tasks rather than routine monitoring.
Automating threat response with AI is especially vital for industries handling sensitive data, such as finance and healthcare. With AI for data protection in cybersecurity, organisations can ensure compliance with regulations while safeguarding sensitive information against increasingly sophisticated attacks.
How AI is Transforming Cybersecurity Practices
AI innovations in cybersecurity aren’t just improving existing practices, they’re reshaping the entire landscape. From AI in cyber threat detection and response to real-time data security with AI, these technologies are driving a future where organisations can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.
One such innovation is the integration of predictive analytics, which uses historical data to anticipate future attack vectors. By identifying vulnerabilities before they’re exploited, organisations can proactively strengthen their defences. Real-time threat analysis with AI is no longer a luxury but a critical component of modern cybersecurity strategies.
ESET offers several real-time threat analysis services, including:
- Threat Monitoring, Threat Intelligence and Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR).
- Threat Monitoring provides 24/7 monitoring for threats and indicators of compromise. It uses tools like SIEM and EDR to detect threats and alert threat hunters.
- Threat Intelligence provides real-time information on newly discovered malware samples, including their characteristics and IOCs. It also provides global knowledge on targeted attacks, advanced persistent threats (APTs), zero-days, and botnet activities.
- Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) analyses real-time endpoint data to provide prevention, detection, and response solutions for security issues. It can help with detecting advanced persistent threats, stopping fileless attacks, blocking zero-day threats, protecting against ransomware, neutralising state-sponsored attacks, suppressing false alarms and blocking malicious modules.
Looking Ahead: The Future of AI in Threat Detection
The future of AI in threat detection is both exciting and challenging. As AI-driven cybersecurity trends evolve, so too will the tactics of cybercriminals. Staying ahead will require ongoing innovation, collaboration, and investment in AI-driven solutions for cybersecurity threats.
ESET’s years of experience paired with continued advancements in AI and cybersecurity technology highlight the potential for real-time security advancements that protect businesses and individuals alike. The key to success lies in leveraging AI not just as a tool but as a partner in safeguarding digital landscapes.
In the end, the benefits of AI in real-time security solutions go beyond protection. They provide peace of mind in an increasingly connected world. By embracing AI-driven protection measures and automating threat response with AI, organisations can navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity with confidence.
If you’re looking for comprehensive next-gen digital security for your home, business or enterprise, chat with our knowledgeable sales team to find the right solution for you.