Businesses require a fresh approach to cyber defense, according to a cybersecurity expert.
In the rapidly evolving cyber landscape, the need for advanced technologies to bolster defenses against malicious actors has never been more pressing. AI and automation are playing a pivotal role in this transformation, offering solutions to some of the industry's most pressing challenges.
One such challenge is the issue of cybersecurity burnout. Manual alert triages in security operations centers (SOCs) are causing alert fatigue, with analysts spending nearly three hours triaging thousands of alerts manually on a daily basis [1]. This grueling workload has led to high levels of burnout among professionals, with 62% experiencing burnout at least once in 2023 and 44% experiencing it multiple times [2].
AI tools can help alleviate this burden by filtering and prioritizing alerts, automating incident summaries, and streamlining workflows. This allows analysts to focus on the most critical threats rather than being overwhelmed by false positives and volume. Studies show that up to half of an analyst's workload could be automated effectively [1][3].
Moreover, AI enhances real-time threat detection. Machine learning models continuously analyze vast datasets to detect anomalies and insider threats faster than manual methods, reducing detection time from hours to seconds [3][4]. AI-powered Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) platforms like IBM QRadar and Microsoft Sentinel use AI for proactive threat hunting and false positive reduction [3].
AI also automates incident response and mitigation. It can quarantine compromised devices, block malicious traffic, and recommend tailored remediation strategies based on prior incidents and system context. This shortens response time and improves the strategic response quality, thus minimizing impact [3][4].
However, the benefits of AI must be balanced against the rising use of AI by threat actors. These adversaries are using AI to accelerate vulnerability discovery and automate sophisticated attacks. It is crucial for defenders to adopt AI-enhanced tools to keep pace [2].
The Japanese Diet passed the Active Cyber Defense legislation in May 2025, aiming to minimize potential damage from cyberattacks against critical infrastructure. The legislation has three pillars: public-private partnerships, government usage of telecommunication data, and neutralization of cyberattacks by the police and Self-Defense Forces [6].
The legislation was passed the same day that another act was enacted to expand the coverage of security clearance to industry personnel [6]. This move underscores the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in the face of growing cyber threats.
As AI and automation transform cybersecurity roles, it is essential to remember that they are tools to augment human expertise, not replace it. The C-suite needs to start inviting the CISO to board and executive meetings to incorporate cybersecurity perspectives in strategic decision-making [7].
Leadership recognition and incentives are also crucial in motivating cybersecurity professionals. Gratitude and recognition from the leadership can help retain talent and foster a culture of dedication to protecting corporate brand, employees, and customers [5].
In conclusion, AI and automation are transforming the cybersecurity landscape by taking over repetitive tasks and augmenting human expertise with scalable, data-driven detection and response capabilities. This eases staff burnout and enables faster, more accurate threat management while requiring ongoing vigilance to counter the growing use of AI by attackers [1][2][3][4][5].
References: [1] https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/08/04/ai-and-automation-are-the-keys-to-mitigating-cybersecurity-burnout/?sh=77a4e6b04f9e [2] https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2021/08/13/ai-automation-cybersecurity-burnout/ [3] https://www.ibm.com/security/services/managed-security-services/ai-and-security [4] https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business-applications/sentinel [5] https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/08/04/ai-and-automation-are-the-keys-to-mitigating-cybersecurity-burnout/?sh=77a4e6b04f9e [6] https://www.japanatoday.com/category/politics/view/japan-passes-active-cyber-defense-law [7] https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestechcouncil/2021/07/20/the-c-suite-needs-to-invite-the-ciso-to-board-and-executive-meetings/?sh=5a8f8b98154a
- In the realm of business and general-news, the Japanese government acknowledged the increasing need for advanced technologies in cybersecurity by passing the Active Cyber Defense legislation in May 2025.
- Amidst the rapidly evolving tech landscape and political landscape, AI and automation tools in cybersecurity are not only reducing the workload of analysts and alleviating burnout but also enhancing real-time threat detection and response.
- As AI and automation continue to transform the cybersecurity industry, it is imperative for executives to actively involve the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) in strategic decisions and provide recognition and incentives to retain proficient cybersecurity professionals.
