Global Study Shows 93% of Organizations Employ Public Generative AI, Yet 34% Lack Clear Policies
INDIA – May 3, 2024 – Splunk, a leading cybersecurity and observability provider, in partnership with Enterprise Strategy Group, has released the “State of Security 2024: The Race to Leverage AI” global research report. Drawing insights from 1,650 security leaders worldwide, the report reveals a shifting cybersecurity landscape with the rising prominence of generative AI (Gen AI).
The findings indicate widespread adoption of Gen AI tools across organizations, with advanced cybersecurity programs demonstrating substantial budgets and resources to embrace cutting-edge technologies. However, despite high adoption rates, many organizations lack defined Gen AI policies and a comprehensive understanding of its broader implications. Additionally, cybersecurity leaders are divided on whether Gen AI will favor defenders or threat actors.
Key highlights from the report include:
- 93% of security leaders report using public Gen AI within their organizations, with 91% utilizing it specifically for cybersecurity operations.
- Despite high adoption, 34% of surveyed organizations lack a Gen AI policy, and 65% admit to not fully comprehending its implications.
- Generative AI surpasses cloud security as the top initiative for 44% of respondents in 2024.
- Cybersecurity professionals are divided on the advantage of Gen AI, with 45% believing it will benefit threat actors and 43% favoring cybersecurity defenders.
Patrick Coughlin, Senior Vice President of Global Technical Sales at Splunk, comments, “We are witnessing an AI gold rush, with both bad actors and security professionals vying for advantage. While Gen AI presents opportunities to streamline processes and enhance productivity, it also introduces unprecedented advantages for threat actors. Defenders must outpace adversaries in harnessing and securely deploying the power of Gen AI to combat emerging threats.”
Furthermore, the report highlights Gen AI as a potential solution to cybersecurity hiring challenges, enabling organizations to onboard entry-level talent more efficiently and enhance the speed and productivity of cybersecurity professionals. However, growing compliance pressures and changing mandates underscore the need for increased vigilance and accountability within the security sector.