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How AI and Machine learning can detect and prevent malicious attacks

17.04.2023
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Defences based on technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning can help protect the cyber system from advanced threats programmed by threat actors. While the two concepts can work together, they are not programmed in the same way. Before discussing how each can detect and prevent malicious attacks, let's examine the difference between the two.

Artificial Intelligence AI is a branch of computer science and engineering that focuses on building machines that are capable of learning, solving problems, making decisions, and all the other functions traditionally performed by the human intellect. In other words, AI refers to the ability of a machine to behave somewhat like a human.
Machine learning ML is a subset of artificial intelligence that focuses on building methods and models that allow computers to learn from experience and get better over time without explicit programming. More accurately, machine learning is a technique for teaching computers how to perform certain tasks by feeding them data and letting them learn from it.

AI can detect patterns in data that may indicate a suspicious or malicious move, while machine learning can detect new variants of malware through the data used to train it and the further learning it performs. A combination of both technologies will improve cybersecurity.

Here are how it can be possible:

  • artificial intelligence and machine learning can identify phishing links and malicious URLs and alert the security team
  • they can aid in the process of updating signature-based malware detection systems by employing algorithms to identify new strains of current malware
  • by intentionally feeding them with bad data, their algorithm can learn to identify small trends in data that could suggest a zero-day assault before it happens
  • artificial intelligence and machine learning are capable of identifying patterns in data that may indicate suspicious behaviour through the use of algorithms
  • they can monitor user behaviour across many platforms to identify any suspicious or malicious behaviour and notify the security team.

Performing all these services will help the security team detect and focus on the most important tasks much faster. The earlier detection of an impending danger will mitigate the user's chances of being hacked and further take preventive measures to avert any malicious action. While it has its limitations, it sure proves a better approach to fighting cyber threats when harnessed properly.