Over Half of American Businesses Suffer Data Leaks Due to Internal Sources
In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, the use of generative AI tools has become a topic of significant interest and concern for many businesses. A recent survey reveals insights into how U.S. firms are adapting to this technology, particularly in the realm of file security.
A third (33%) of the respondents reported that their organisation has already integrated AI into its file security strategy. This integration has been driven by a recognition of the importance of AI in enhancing file security maturity. However, a substantial proportion (29%) of firms still have not adopted generative AI tools, with 19% expressing no plans to do so in the near future.
The concerns surrounding generative AI stem primarily from data security and confidentiality issues. Over the past two years, several high-profile companies such as Apple and JPMorgan Chase have banned the use of these tools within their workplaces. Yet, a comprehensive list of all such companies is not explicitly detailed in the provided search results.
Data leakage, whether malicious or unintentional, poses the most serious risk to file security. Unintentional insiders, who unwittingly leak data due to negligence or being duped by malicious actors, account for a significant proportion of these incidents. In fact, 61% of U.S. firms have experienced insider data breaches in the past two years, with the average cost of such incidents per organisation being $2.7m.
File storage environments, including on-premises environments such as SharePoint and network-attached storage (NAS) devices, are considered the locations that pose the biggest threat to data. Interestingly, 29% of respondents are currently in the testing pilot phase of using generative AI technology to unlock files, while 18% have already implemented it for this purpose.
On the other hand, 27% of firms take an ad hoc approach to generative AI use in the workplace. This approach has led to an average of eight insider incidents in affected businesses. It is worth noting that these incidents resulted in unauthorized access to sensitive and confidential data.
Despite the concerns, there is a glimmer of hope. Over half (59%) of those respondents who have or plan to make AI part of its file security strategy said that AI is very or highly effective in enhancing file security maturity. Furthermore, 29% of firms have already implemented a formal policy for generative AI use in the workplace, indicating a growing awareness and proactive approach towards managing this technology.
In conclusion, while the use of generative AI in the workplace continues to be a contentious issue, the survey results suggest a growing recognition of its potential benefits for file security. As more firms adopt formal policies and integrate AI into their strategies, it is hoped that data breaches and incidents can be minimised, ensuring a more secure digital future.
