AI-driven threats set to reshape business security by 2026
Cybersecurity firm DNSFilter has warned that businesses will face escalating risks from artificial intelligence-driven threats by 2026, as malicious actors deploy deepfakes and exploit new attack vectors. The company's analysts anticipate AI will underpin both mounting dangers and emerging opportunities, pushing organisations to overhaul their security strategies.
Deepfakes threat
Deepfake technology is expected to accelerate erosion of trust. DNSFilter experts state that AI-generated audio and video are blurring the distinction between real and fake at an unprecedented pace. Attackers are set to increase use of hyper-realistic fake voices, faces and video to manipulate human psychology, including impersonating authority figures or manufacturing urgent requests.
As a consequence, traditional security principles-confidentiality, integrity, and availability-are now seen as insufficient. Other security experts referenced by DNSFilter argue a new pillar, authenticity, will become central to digital trust over the coming years. Distinguishing genuine content from fabrications is set to become a fundamental challenge for both businesses and individuals.
AI services imperative
AI is rapidly becoming embedded in business processes, security infrastructure, and operational scale, according to trend data observed on DNSFilter's network-where AI-related traffic grew by 69% over the past year. Managed service providers (MSPs), who support organisations' IT needs, are under increasing pressure to integrate AI-powered solutions into their offerings.
Companies which support clients must now consider not only deploying but also educating customers on practical AI adoption, or risk being overtaken by competitors. The move towards automating workflows with AI has shifted from a technical option to a commercial necessity for these providers.
Advisors warn that while AI promises growth and efficiency, MSPs must balance these expansions with their existing responsibilities to maintain relevance in the market.
CSAM detection challenges
Alongside new AI opportunities, DNSFilter highlights a concerning increase in illegal content, notably child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Over the past year, the company recorded a 44% increase in blocked CSAM. The proliferation of sophisticated AI tools is cited as a significant factor in producing unmoderated visual content, complicating detection and removal efforts.
Legislation designed to protect minors, such as age verification and photo identification laws on adult platforms, may inadvertently push distribution of harmful content into private channels, making it harder for monitors to find and remove illicit material.
Shifting security standards
The forecast from DNSFilter's experts suggests the cybercrime landscape is transforming, with rapid innovation by malicious actors outpacing many organisations. Firms are being urged to rethink 'business as usual' security approaches and prepare for new types of attacks and vulnerabilities enabled by generative AI.
"From AI to CSAM, from malicious domains to shifts in business strategy and standards, organizations are facing a raft of challenges that must be addressed head-on. Forewarned is forearmed, so we're sharing our insights to help companies overcome them by making whatever adjustments are necessary to keep their businesses secure," said TK Keanini, Chief Technology Officer, DNSFilter.