Artificial Intelligence (AI) is arguably the most transformative tool of our time, driving efficiency, saving money, and unlocking unparalleled potential for businesses. Yet, like any powerful innovation, it comes with its risks—and that’s why I’m writing this article. As a cybersecurity professional with a military background, I’m passionate about AI’s possibilities but remain grounded in a “trust but verify” approach.
Let’s dive into why we should be excited about AI, but also why we must tread carefully.
AI: A Force for Good and Evil
AI has the potential to revolutionize industries and change how we live and work. But, as with any powerful technology, it can also be misused. From my military days, I learned that we often don’t address issues until disaster strikes—what we call “right of boom.” The same mindset applied when I started my cybersecurity firm in 2004.
Back then, many companies didn’t think they needed cybersecurity. Some even told me outright that investing in protection wasn’t worth the cost. It wasn’t until high-profile hacks began making headlines that these same organizations called in a panic, trying to mitigate years of unnoticed breaches. Fast forward to today, and cybersecurity is a priority in every business conversation.
The lesson? Reacting late is expensive. And we’re at the brink of repeating this cycle—this time with AI.
The AI Trust Problem
Businesses are rushing to adopt AI for competitive advantage, but many are doing so without considering security, privacy, or ethics. Worse, some AI providers ask for blind trust while using our data to train their future models. History has shown that “trust us” is often followed by apologies after something goes wrong. As I’ve learned, trust must be earned.
Three Critical AI Risks to Address
AI adoption is inevitable, but organizations must protect themselves by proactively addressing these risks:
1. Your Data May Already Be in AI Models
AI companies often train their models on publicly available data—including content from your website—without permission. Lawsuits are mounting, but for now, you must assume your data could be used to fuel someone else’s AI, potentially creating competitors who have an edge using your proprietary information.
Solution: Keep sensitive data out of external AI systems. If your data is a “secret sauce,” consider internal models that you fully control and avoid sharing updates beyond your network.
2. AI in Everyday Products Can Pose Risks
AI is rapidly embedded into products we use daily, often without clear details about how it interacts with your data. Some tools send your data back to their systems to improve their AI, which could expose sensitive information.
Solution: Always check the terms and conditions of tools with AI features—or better yet, verify their claims. Sales pitches may not reflect how the product was designed.
3. Employees Are Already Sharing Sensitive Data
Employees eager to boost productivity often upload sensitive information—like financial reports or HR documents—into third-party AI tools. Without proper controls, this can create significant security risks.
Solution: Block access to unapproved AI tools and provide secure alternatives that align with your company’s security and privacy policies. Set guardrails to protect sensitive data.
A Call to Action: Plan Before You Leap
AI is a game-changer, but adopting it responsibly is critical. Businesses should:
- Inventory existing AI use: Identify where and how AI is already being utilized in your organization.
- Develop a plan: Create clear policies to secure proprietary data and evaluate new AI tools before rolling them out.
- Read the fine print: Understand the terms of use for any AI product and verify claims about data protection.
The benefits of AI are too great to ignore, but so are the risks. Being proactive today can save you from costly lessons tomorrow.
Need Guidance? Let’s Talk
If this resonates with you, don’t wait to act. At **ZeroTrusted.AI**, we specialize in helping organizations adopt AI securely and responsibly. Reach out to us at **Contact@ZeroTrusted.AI**—we’re here to help you navigate the future of AI.
AI: Transformative, Powerful, and Worth Doing Right
AI can be the tool that takes your business to the next level—just make sure it’s not also the tool that opens the door to risk.
About the Author
Waylon Krush is the CEO of ZeroTrusted.AI, a company at the forefront of ensuring security, privacy, and reliability in artificial intelligence. With over 25 years of experience in cybersecurity—including roles in the U.S. Army, Lunarline, Inc., and Motorola Solutions—Waylon is a recognized thought leader and a passionate advocate for responsible AI deployment. Drawing on his deep technical expertise and leadership, he works to help organizations harness the transformative power of AI while safeguarding their data and integrity.
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