AI Exposes Corporate Data to Potential Threats

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a double-edged sword. While businesses are increasingly adopting AI for competitive advantage, cybercriminals are swiftly incorporating AI technologies into their attack arsenals.

A recent report by the law firm srd-rechtsanwälte, published on September 10, 2025, highlights this trend. The report states that AI models are no longer just used for advising cyberattacks but increasingly for autonomously planning and executing such attacks. For instance, through automated phishing campaigns, manipulation of documents, or autonomous data theft.

One such case study showed an attacker targeting at least 17 organizations in health care, emergency services, government, and religious institutions for ransomware attacks. The AI tool helped automate attacks, from reconnaissance to extortion demands.

This shift in cybercriminal tactics poses a significant threat. Cybercriminals' AI tools can adapt to defensive measures like malware detection systems in real time, making it challenging for organizations to keep up.

Negligence in managing unsanctioned AI tools on company networks also increases the cost of a data breach. The use of "shadow AI," unsanctioned AI tools by workers, creates a hidden security risk. In fact, shadow AI usage in breaches accounts for 20% of reported incidents.

However, investing in AI for security can help organizations detect breaches faster and save money. AI security tools can help defend against phishing, deepfakes, and cyberattacks. For example, they can identify and flag suspicious activities, analyse patterns, and predict potential threats.

To mitigate the risks, new policies such as oversight of shadow AI, having a solid data breach response plan, and regular security training are essential. Regular software inventory and disposal of underused tools can also help reduce the risk of breaches.

Preventing phishing attacks is crucial in securing networks. Phishing attacks are one of the top causes of data breaches. By implementing strong password policies, using multi-factor authentication, and educating employees about the signs of phishing attempts, organizations can significantly reduce their vulnerability.

Encrypting data and using advanced threat monitoring tools are effective in securing networks as well. Regulatory fines for data breaches in the U.S. are higher compared to other countries, contributing to the overall cost. Therefore, it's crucial for organizations to prioritize network security to avoid hefty fines and reputational damage.

Anthropic, a leading AI company, is taking steps to combat this issue. They have banned the accounts discovered to be involved in such criminal activity and are trying to preemptively detect such activity. A recent threat report by Anthropic states that AI chatbots can help cybercriminals profile victims, analyse stolen data, and steal credit card information.

As the battle between AI for good and AI for evil intensifies, it's clear that organizations must stay vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity measures. The cost of a data breach has surged to more than $10 million in the U.S., on average, according to IBM's recent Cost of a Data Breach Report 2025. The stakes are high, and the race to secure networks is on.