As technology and artificial intelligence advance in 2024 and beyond, cybersecurity threats will unfortunately keep pace. In a world where “deepfakes” are already hard to discern from real videos, businesses now need to up their game to defend against genuine (and hard to detect) virtual attacks.
“ According to IBM, the global average cost of a data breach is a staggering $4.88 millionmaking up-to-date cybersecurity measures imperative for businesses of all sizes.”
Fortunately, if you’re proactive and rely on tools like AI-powered automated penetration testing, you can quickly identify and mitigate any vulnerabilities in your business to protect against cyber attacks.
What is Automated Pentesting?
An automated pentest uses artificial intelligence to simulate cyber attacks made on a business’ infrastructure. Manual penetration testing by contrast offers similar insights but can take much longer and is limited in scope.
If you’re serious about safeguarding your business from virtual threats to support thorough stress testing, automated pentesting is an excellent proactive solution to consider.
Benefits of AI-Powered Automated Pentesting
There are many reasons why implementing automated pentesting is a good idea for bolstering your business’ cybersecurity.
1. 24/7 Vigilance
Unlike manual pentesting, automated pentesting offers around-the-clock vigilance to identify cybersecurity threats even when the business is most vulnerable. Plus, you can gain real-time insights into organizational security measures for peace of mind.
2. Wide Coverage
With an AI-assisted solution, you can evaluate whole networks and systems to plug any gaps in your defences and make sure no risk is overlooked.
3. Scalability
As you scale in your business, you can continue to use automated pentesting to safeguard your business against threats as it can handle large, complex networks – the likes of which would likely prove a step too far with manual pentesting.
4. Rapid detection
The best way to guarantee that your business remains safe in the face of digital threats and attacks is to have a rapid response to any suspicious activity. With AI-automated pentesting, you can quickly process a vast amount of data, and diagnose issues quickly.
5. Low Cost
The cost of having a human team stay across all cybersecurity threats at all times is significant, so employing AI support can prove more economical over time.
How to Implement Automated Pentesting
If you’re convinced of the need to introduce more robust cybersecurity measures in your business, implementing automated pentesting is a wise move.
With AI-backing, automated pentesting benefits from machine learning and advanced analytics, meaning it will continue to learn and simulate more sophisticated virtual threats to keep you on your toes and proactive in your responses.
So how do you set it up in your business?
“Analyze your current security infrastructure and look for weaknesses or areas that could most benefit from automated pentesting”
Find a pentesting solution that offers everything your business needs, and preferably one that integrates with your existing tech stack and software solutions for minimal interruption to the way you work
Train your security staff to work with the automated pentesting solution and complement your existing security measures
Carry out regular audits to make sure that you stay on top of the latest threats and keep your cybersecurity defenses up to date
The Future of AI and Automated Pentesting
Let’s say you’re on board with automated pentesting and the applications of AI and now you’re curious about where the technology is headed.
In time, this technology will be commonplace for many companies’ cybersecurity protocol, and will evolve and develop to provide further protection against threats.
Predictive Pentesting
In future, AI pentesting could provide users with key insights into potential vulnerabilities within their businesses. By predicting potential areas for concern, this could narrow the risk window for incoming cyber attacks.
Autonomous AI Security
Right now, you can run realistic simulations using powerful AI and machine learning technology. One day, there may be a scenario whereby AI can assume responsibility for routine security tasks, freeing up your human security team to focus on complex problem-solving.
Accelerated Machine Learning
With every evolution in AI, processes and workflows become faster and more efficient – this is true whether you’re talking about GPT models or machine learning.
For the latter, it’s conceivable that as AI systems can process more data, they’ll be able to pick up on foreign threats faster and with a higher degree of accuracy, while constantly learning from each scenario.
Is AI Automated Pentesting Right for Your Business?
AI-powered automated pentesting offers businesses unparalleled levels of insight into potential cybersecurity threats they might encounter.
With continuous automated testing through artificial intelligence, you can rest assured that your digital assets will be well-protected as you can quickly respond to any impending cyber attack ahead of time.
Businesses that understand the huge risks associated with cybersecurity attacks are best positioned to benefit from automated pentesting, and can assure customers that their data is in safe hands.
