Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents a complex landscape within the realm of cybersecurity, offering both opportunities and challenges for businesses and institutions, according to insights from an industry expert.
Dr. Moataz Bin Ali, serving as the Regional Vice-President and Managing Director for MMEA at Trend Micro, emphasized the multifaceted role of AI in cybersecurity during an interview at Gitex Global 2023 in Dubai. He highlighted the dual nature of AI, where it can be harnessed to enhance defensive strategies, but conversely, can be exploited by cybercriminals and malicious actors for launching cyberattacks.
In the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region, which faces unique cybersecurity challenges due to the increasing sophistication of digital threats, traditional security measures often prove inadequate. Trend Micro’s mid-year report, titled ‘Stepping Ahead Of Risk,’ revealed that during the first half of 2023, the company’s solutions successfully identified and thwarted over 475 million threats across the MEA region. This data underscored the growing complexity and frequency of such cyberattacks. Furthermore, in the UAE alone, Trend Micro detected and blocked over 39 million threats.
Dr. Bin Ali emphasized that while AI introduces new challenges, it also provides significant opportunities. AI not only aids in mitigating cyber threats but also facilitates the enhancement of an organization’s cybersecurity capabilities, automation processes, and overall digital transformation efforts.
Trend Micro has strategically integrated AI across three distinct layers within its solutions and technologies. The initial layer is dedicated to threat detection and response, serving as the core foundation of their cybersecurity approach. The second layer focuses on automation and assistance, exemplified by the introduction of the Trend Micro AI copilot, designed to support threat analysts and security consultants in their work. Lastly, the third layer emphasizes machine learning, enabling the identification and mitigation of previously unknown threats.
During Gitex, Trend Micro formalized several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), including a significant partnership with the Abu Dhabi Digital Authority for the launch of a cybersecurity platform. Another MoU was established with the Cyber Security Council, aimed at fortifying cybersecurity defenses through collaborative efforts involving various organizations.
Dr. Bin Ali emphasized that their journey through the dynamic digital landscape is marked by resilience and ongoing innovation. AI plays a pivotal role in positioning Trend Micro as a leader in predictive, proactive, and precise security solutions.
Looking ahead, Dr. Bin Ali envisions an increasingly intertwined relationship between cybersecurity and AI. He anticipates seamless collaboration, whether in offensive or defensive capacities, as AI continues to intersect with emerging technologies like virtual reality, IoT, Blockchain, and others. This convergence is expected to pave the way for AI-driven cybersecurity solutions that hold immense potential and promise.
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