Your business is likely keen to promote and facilitate the use of AI in ways it can benefit productivity and operations such as automating routine tasks, enhancing data analysis, speeding up information retrieval and aiding creativity.
However, in order to mitigate risks like data leaks, security breaches and cyberattacks, it’s really important to create and disseminate a clear security policy that sets out user responsibilities when using AI tools. The policy should aims to ensure that:
- Data protection and information management processes are followed
- There is user accountability for the use of AI
- Any content generated by AI is accurate
- The use of AI is transparent i.e. clear that AI has been used
For policy makers
- Create a board/committee to oversee all AI governance and adoption. This ensures accountability and delivers a single, agree, consistent message to all employees.
- Adopt recognised standards that are relevant to your industry and comply with laws such as GDPR and the EU AI Act.
- Assess your existing data access controls and storage, and establish how AI might access any sensitive data – encrypt or regulate access where applicable.
- Meet and update your AI regulations regularly – remember how fast AI moves!
- Keep up to date with search terms such as ‘AI Risk Mitigation’ and ‘AI security policies’ – and yes, AI can write you a policy.
- Continuously monitor and secure any vulnerabilities and compliance gaps.
- Make it clear which AI tools are allowed/not allowed – choose solutions with strong security features and compliance such as ISO 27001, Cyber Essentials etc. Many of these AI tools also offer automated data governance, real-time threat detection, and policy enforcement. Examples include Microsoft Security Copilot and other enterprise-grade platforms – talk to our security team for the best recommendations.
For end users
- Only use AI tools that have been approved by your business
- Get authorisation from your IT/Security team when adopting an AI tool
- Beware of public AI tools – never upload company data into platforms like ChatGPT or Bing AI.
- Avoid registering for AI tools with your corporate email or credentials – again, use tools made available by your business.
We’ve got some really experienced AI experts in our IT Support team who are happy to talk about what to use, what to avoid and how to stay secure when using AI. Give us a call on 01865 367111 at any time.