AI Threats Rise: Cyber Hygiene Remains Key, Experts Say

Cybersecurity experts are emphasizing the continued importance of basic cyber hygiene, even as AI-powered threats emerge. This was a key theme at the ISAC Annual Summit. State, local, tribal, and territorial cyber practitioners are seeking ways to secure systems against criminals using AI platforms. These platforms enable faster attacks, higher volumes, and more efficient scanning for vulnerabilities. Randy Rose from the Center for Internet Security highlighted that getting the basics right, though not easy, can mitigate many attacks, including advanced ones. The top CIS security controls include inventory control for hardware and software assets. This foundational work addresses multiple issues, like supply chain and endpoint management. Minnesota CISO John Israel noted that cyberattacks are becoming faster and more realistic. Many threats are identity-related, so his state focuses on strengthening identity and access with measures like phishing-resistant multifactor authentication. The bottom line is that while AI presents new challenges, fundamental cybersecurity practices remain crucial for defense.