UK-based organizations and businesses are increasingly becoming victims of cyber threats, especially ransomware attacks. The role of AI in these attacks is being investigated, with experts predicting a rise in the number of incidents in the future. The use of AI removes the entry barrier for hackers, allowing them easy access to systems and the ability to carry out malicious activities without detection. The National Cyber Security Center has released a report emphasizing the need for companies to stay updated with modern cyber security tools and use AI effectively for risk management. The British Government is investing billions of pounds to protect the country from cyberattacks.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI increases cyber threats and ransomware attacks | Increased cyber threats | AI-driven attacks become more sophisticated and prevalent | Convenience and accessibility of AI for hackers |
| NCSC warns of increasing ransomware threat incidents | Rising ransomware threats | Higher number of global ransomware incidents | Criminal generative AI (GENAI) as a service |
| Companies urged to use AI for risk management | Adoption of AI for risk management | More effective use of AI for cybersecurity | Need to keep pace with modern cyber security tools |
| Exploitation of AI by criminals for cyberattacks | Increased use of AI in cyberattacks | More sophisticated and speedy cyberattacks | Criminals taking advantage of AI capabilities |
| British Government invests in cyber security | Increased funding for cyber security | Enhanced protection against cyberattacks | Strategic efforts to combat malicious cyberattacks |