JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

ACM classification:
K.6.5 Security and Protection: Authentication
K.6.3 Software Management: Software Development
K.4.1 Public Policy Issues: Ethics
K.3.2 Computers and Education: Computer and Information Science Education
K.4.4 Electronic Commerce: Security and Privacy

Artificial Intelligence in Information Security:

Exploring the Advantages, Challenges, and
Future Directions

Arif Ali Mughal

[email protected]
RECEIVED
17 April 2017

REVISED
22 December 2017
Keywords:
Artificial intelligence (AI), Information
security, Advantages, Human-machine
collaboration, Ethical implications
ACCEPTED FOR PUBLICATION
11 January 2018
PUBLISHED
20 January 2018

Abstract
This research explores the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in information security, highlighting the
advantages and challenges associated with this approach. The paper begins by discussing the evolving
nature of cyber threats and the limitations of traditional rule-based security systems. The advantages
of AI in information security are then explored, including its ability to process large amounts of data
quickly, detect anomalies and unusual activity, automate threat response, and provide real-time
insights into security events. The research also addresses the importance of human-machine
collaboration in information security, and the potential for AI to augment human capabilities in this
area. The different types of AI algorithms used in information security are discussed, including
supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning, along with their strengths and limitations.
Ethical and legal implications of AI in information security are also considered, including issues related
to privacy and data protection, potential biases in AI algorithms, and the need for accountability and
responsibility in the use of AI technology. Case studies of successful AI implementations in information
security are presented, and emerging trends and opportunities for further research and development
in the field are discussed. This study emphasizes the significant potential of AI in enhancing
information security outcomes, while also highlighting the importance of ethical frameworks and
accountability mechanisms to ensure that AI is used in a fair, transparent, and ethical manner.

Introduction
Information security has become increasingly critical as society has become more dependent
on technology. With the rise of the digital age, the number and complexity of cyber threats have
increased, making it challenging for organizations to detect and respond to them effectively.
Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising technology to enhance information
security outcomes by augmenting human capabilities and decision-making.

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 22

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

This article provides valuable insights into the role of AI in information security. Author argues
that AI can improve security outcomes in a variety of ways, such as by detecting anomalies,
automating responses to threats, and providing real-time insights into security events.
This paper explores the key concepts presented and provides an in-depth analysis of the ways
in which AI can be used to improve information security outcomes. We discuss the challenges
faced by information security professionals, the advantages of using AI in information security,
the different types of AI algorithms used in information security, and the ethical and legal
implications of using AI in information security. We conclude by discussing future directions
for AI in information security and the importance of continued research and development in
this field to stay ahead of evolving threats in the digital age.
Information security is the practice of protecting computer systems and networks from
unauthorized access, theft, damage, or disruption. As organizations become more reliant on
technology to manage their operations, the protection of sensitive data has become increasingly
important. In the modern era, data breaches can cause significant harm to an organization's
reputation, financial stability, and customer trust. Cybercriminals are continuously evolving
their techniques and strategies, making it challenging for information security professionals to
keep up.
Traditionally, information security has relied on rule-based systems that use predefined rules
to identify and respond to security threats. However, these systems have limitations, including
their inability to adapt to new and evolving threats, the time required to manually update the
rules, and the inability to handle the sheer volume of data generated in today's complex IT
environments. This has led to a growing interest in AI as a solution to enhance information
security outcomes.
AI has the potential to revolutionize the field of information security by processing large
amounts of data quickly, identifying anomalies, and automating responses to security threats.
AI can be used to augment human capabilities and decision-making, enabling organizations to
respond to security incidents more effectively. In the next sections, we will explore the
advantages of using AI in information security and the different types of AI algorithms that can
be used in this field.
AI has emerged as a promising technology to enhance information security outcomes. With the
increasing complexity and sophistication of cyber threats, the use of traditional rule-based
security systems has become inadequate. AI provides a more advanced and adaptive approach
to information security, enabling organizations to detect and respond to threats more
effectively. One of the key advantages of AI in information security is its ability to process
large amounts of data quickly. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data in real-time,
detecting anomalies and unusual activity that may indicate a security breach. AI can also
automate responses to security incidents, enabling organizations to respond to incidents faster
and more efficiently.
Another advantage of AI in information security is its ability to learn and adapt over time.
Machine learning algorithms can be trained using historical data to improve the accuracy of
threat detection and response. As new threats emerge, AI algorithms can quickly adapt and
update their models to ensure that they remain effective.

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 23

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

In addition to improving detection and response capabilities, AI can also provide real-time
insights into security events. This enables organizations to monitor their security posture
continuously and identify potential weaknesses in their systems. AI can also help organizations
identify trends and patterns in security incidents, enabling them to implement more effective
security controls. The use of AI in information security is becoming increasingly important as
organizations seek to protect their critical data and systems from cyber threats. AI provides a
more advanced and adaptive approach to information security, enabling organizations to detect
and respond to threats more effectively.

Challenges in Information Security

Evolving Nature of Cyber Threats:
One of the biggest challenges in information security is the evolving nature of cyber threats.
Cybercriminals are continuously developing new and sophisticated techniques to breach
security systems, making it challenging for organizations to keep up. One example of this is the
increasing use of artificial intelligence and machine learning by cybercriminals. Attackers can
use AI algorithms to automate attacks, making them more efficient and effective. For example,
they can use AI to generate phishing emails that are personalized to the target, increasing the
likelihood that the recipient will click on a malicious link or download a malware-infected
attachment.
Table 1. Challenges in Information Security
Challenge Description
Evolving Nature of Cyber Cybercriminals are continuously developing new and sophisticated
Threats techniques to breach security systems, such as the use of AI and
machine learning to automate attacks and the increasing use of mobile
devices and cloud-based systems as new attack vectors.
Increasing Complexity of The adoption of new technologies and expansion of networks create an
IT Environments intricate IT environment, with multiple platforms and operating systems,
third-party vendors, cloud-based systems, mobile devices, and remote
workforces, leading to vulnerabilities that may be exploited by
cybercriminals.
Limitations of Traditional Rule-based security systems have limitations in adapting to new and
Rule-Based Security evolving threats, processing large amounts of data, and detecting more
Systems sophisticated attacks, such as those that use AI and machine learning.
Information security professionals are turning to AI and machine
learning to enhance security systems and stay ahead of the constantly
evolving threat landscape.

Another challenge is the increasing use of mobile devices and cloud-based systems in the
workplace. These technologies provide new attack vectors for cybercriminals, as they may not
be secured properly or may be vulnerable to attack. For example, mobile devices may be lost
or stolen, providing access to sensitive data, while cloud-based systems may be vulnerable to
data breaches or unauthorized access.
Finally, the increasing complexity of IT environments also poses a challenge to information
security. As organizations adopt new technologies and expand their networks, it becomes more
difficult to monitor and manage security across the entire system. This can lead to blind spots
and vulnerabilities that may be exploited by cybercriminals.
In order to address these challenges, information security professionals must stay up-to-date
with the latest threats and technologies, implement effective security controls, and continuously

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 24

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

monitor and update their systems. AI can play an important role in this process by providing
real-time threat detection and response capabilities, as well as insights into security events and
trends.
Increasing Complexity of IT Environments:
Another challenge in information security is the increasing complexity of IT environments. As
organizations adopt new technologies and expand their networks, the IT environment becomes
more intricate and challenging to manage. This complexity can lead to vulnerabilities that may
be exploited by cybercriminals. One example of this is the use of multiple platforms and
operating systems within an organization. This can create compatibility issues and make it
difficult to maintain consistent security controls across the entire system. As a result,
vulnerabilities may exist in certain areas that are not adequately protected.
Another example is the use of third-party vendors and cloud-based systems. While these
technologies can provide benefits such as cost savings and scalability, they also introduce new
risks to information security. For example, a data breach at a third-party vendor could lead to
the exposure of sensitive data belonging to an organization. Finally, the increasing use of
mobile devices and remote workforces also adds to the complexity of IT environments. Mobile
devices may not be secured properly or may be vulnerable to attack, while remote workers may
use unsecured networks to access corporate systems, creating additional vulnerabilities.
In order to address these challenges, information security professionals must adopt a holistic
approach to security that takes into account the entire IT environment. This includes
implementing consistent security controls across all platforms and operating systems,
conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and closely monitoring third-party vendors and
cloud-based systems. AI can play a critical role in this process by providing real-time insights
into security events and identifying potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited by
cybercriminals.
Limitations of Traditional Rule-Based Security Systems:
Traditional rule-based security systems, which rely on predefined rules to identify and respond
to security threats, have several limitations that make them less effective in today's complex IT
environments. One limitation is their inability to adapt to new and evolving threats. Rule-based
systems are only effective at identifying threats that match the predefined rules. As new threats
emerge, the rules must be manually updated, which can be time-consuming and may not keep
up with the pace of new threats. Another limitation is the volume of data that must be processed.
Traditional security systems can generate vast amounts of data, which can be difficult to analyze
and may lead to false positives or missed threats.
Finally, rule-based systems may not be effective at detecting more sophisticated attacks, such
as those that use AI and machine learning. These attacks may be able to bypass traditional
security systems by mimicking normal user behavior or using advanced evasion techniques. To
address these limitations, information security professionals are turning to AI and machine
learning to enhance their security systems. AI algorithms can process vast amounts of data
quickly and identify patterns that may indicate a security threat. Machine learning algorithms
can also adapt and learn over time, improving their accuracy and effectiveness in detecting and
responding to new and evolving threats. By leveraging AI and machine learning, organizations
can stay ahead of the constantly evolving threat landscape and better protect their critical data
and systems.

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 25

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

Advantages of AI in Information Security

Ability to Process Large Amounts of Data Quickly:
One of the key advantages of AI in information security is its ability to process large amounts
of data quickly. As organizations collect more data, it becomes increasingly challenging to
analyze and monitor it effectively. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data in real-time,
detecting anomalies and unusual activity that may indicate a security breach. For example, AI
algorithms can analyze network traffic to detect unusual patterns of behavior that may indicate
a cyberattack. They can also analyze system logs to identify unusual activity or signs of
unauthorized access. By analyzing data in real-time, AI can provide organizations with early
warning of potential security incidents, allowing them to respond quickly and effectively.
In addition, AI can also help organizations analyze data from multiple sources to identify trends
and patterns in security incidents. This enables organizations to implement more effective
security controls and identify potential weaknesses in their systems before they are exploited
by cybercriminals. Overall, the ability of AI to process large amounts of data quickly is a
significant advantage in information security. By providing real-time insights into security
events and identifying potential threats, AI can help organizations stay ahead of evolving cyber
threats and better protect their critical data and systems.
Detection of Anomalies and Unusual Activity:
Another advantage of AI in information security is its ability to detect anomalies and unusual
activity that may indicate a security breach. AI algorithms can analyze data from multiple
sources, including network traffic, system logs, and user behavior, to identify patterns of
activity that are outside of the norm. For example, AI can detect unusual patterns of behavior
that may indicate a cyberattack, such as large amounts of data being transferred to an external
system or unusual login attempts. AI can also analyze user behavior to identify anomalies that
may indicate an insider threat, such as an employee accessing data outside of their normal work
hours or accessing data that they do not normally have permission to access.
By detecting anomalies and unusual activity, AI can provide organizations with early warning
of potential security incidents, enabling them to respond quickly and effectively. This can help
to prevent data breaches and minimize the damage caused by cyber attacks. In addition, AI can
also automate responses to security incidents, enabling organizations to respond more quickly
and efficiently. For example, AI can automatically block access to a compromised account or
system, reducing the time it takes to contain a security incident. Overall, the ability of AI to
detect anomalies and unusual activity is a significant advantage in information security. By
providing real-time threat detection and response capabilities, AI can help organizations stay
ahead of evolving cyber threats and better protect their critical data and systems.
Automation of Threat Response:
Another advantage of AI in information security is its ability to automate threat response. AI
algorithms can be programmed to respond to security incidents automatically, enabling
organizations to respond more quickly and efficiently. For example, if an AI system detects an
attempted cyber attack, it can automatically block access to the compromised system,
preventing further damage. It can also send alerts to security personnel, providing them with
real-time information about the incident and enabling them to respond quickly. In addition, AI
can also automate the process of patching vulnerabilities and updating security controls. This
can help to reduce the time it takes to implement security updates and ensure that systems are
always up-to-date and protected against the latest threats.

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 26

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

By automating threat response, AI can help organizations to respond more quickly and
effectively to security incidents, reducing the risk of data breaches and minimizing the damage
caused by cyber attacks. Overall, the automation of threat response is a significant advantage
of AI in information security. By providing real-time threat detection and automated response
capabilities, AI can help organizations to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and better protect
their critical data and systems.
Real-Time Insights into Security Events:
Another advantage of AI in information security is its ability to provide real-time insights into
security events. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data in real-time, providing
organizations with immediate insights into security incidents and threats. For example, AI can
analyze network traffic to detect unusual patterns of behavior that may indicate a cyberattack.
It can also analyze system logs to identify unusual activity or signs of unauthorized access. By
providing real-time insights into security events, AI can enable organizations to respond
quickly and effectively to potential threats. In addition, AI can also provide real-time insights
into security trends and patterns. By analyzing data from multiple sources, including network
traffic, system logs, and user behavior, AI can identify trends and patterns that may indicate
potential weaknesses in an organization's security controls. This enables organizations to
implement more effective security controls and proactively address potential vulnerabilities.
Overall, the ability of AI to provide real-time insights into security events is a significant
advantage in information security. By providing organizations with real-time threat detection
and response capabilities, AI can help organizations to stay ahead of evolving cyber threats and
better protect their critical data and systems.

Human-Machine Collaboration in Information Security

Importance of Human Expertise and Decision-Making in Security Outcomes:
While AI provides significant benefits in information security, it is important to recognize the
importance of human expertise and decision-making in achieving optimal security outcomes.
Human expertise can provide critical context and understanding that AI may not be able to
provide on its own. For example, while AI can analyze vast amounts of data and identify
potential security threats, it may not be able to understand the specific context of an
organization's security controls or the potential impact of a security incident on business
operations. This is where human expertise can play a critical role in ensuring that the right
decisions are made to protect the organization's critical data and systems.
In addition, human decision-making can also help to mitigate the risk of false positives or false
negatives in AI systems. While AI can provide real-time insights into potential security
incidents, human experts can review these insights and make informed decisions about the
appropriate response. This can help to reduce the risk of overreacting to false positives or
missing critical security threats.
Overall, the importance of human expertise and decision-making in achieving optimal security
outcomes cannot be overstated. While AI provides significant benefits in information security,
it is important to recognize the critical role that human expertise plays in ensuring that the right
decisions are made to protect the organization's critical data and systems.
Augmentation of Human Capabilities through AI Technology:
While human expertise and decision-making are critical in information security, AI can also
augment human capabilities and enhance the effectiveness of security teams. By automating
routine tasks and providing real-time insights into potential threats, AI can enable security

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 27

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

teams to focus their expertise and decision-making on more complex and strategic security
issues. For example, AI can automate the process of identifying and prioritizing security threats,
enabling security teams to focus their attention on the most critical threats. AI can also automate
the process of updating security controls and patching vulnerabilities, freeing up time for
security teams to focus on strategic security initiatives.
In addition, AI can also provide human experts with real-time insights into security incidents
and potential threats, enabling them to make more informed decisions about the appropriate
response. By providing human experts with real-time insights and automating routine tasks, AI
can help to augment human capabilities and improve the overall effectiveness of information
security operations. Overall, the augmentation of human capabilities through AI technology is
a significant advantage in information security. By automating routine tasks and providing real-
time insights into potential threats, AI can help to free up time for human experts to focus on
more complex and strategic security issues, improving the overall effectiveness of information
security operations.
Examples of Successful Human-Machine Collaboration in Information Security:
There are several examples of successful human-machine collaboration in information security,
where AI and human expertise have worked together to achieve optimal security outcomes.
One example is the use of AI in threat intelligence. AI can analyze vast amounts of data from
multiple sources, including open-source intelligence, social media, and the dark web, to identify
potential threats. Human experts can then review these insights and make informed decisions
about the appropriate response.
Another example is the use of AI in incident response. AI can automate routine tasks, such as
blocking access to compromised systems or patching vulnerabilities, enabling human experts
to focus on more complex and strategic security issues. In addition, AI can also be used to
improve the effectiveness of security operations centers (SOCs). By automating the process of
identifying and prioritizing security threats, AI can help to reduce the workload of security
analysts and enable them to focus on more complex and strategic security issues. Overall, the
successful collaboration between humans and machines in information security highlights the
importance of leveraging the strengths of both AI and human expertise. By working together,
AI and human experts can achieve optimal security outcomes and better protect critical data
and systems.

Types of AI Algorithms in Information Security

Supervised Learning:
Supervised learning is one of the most common types of AI algorithms used in information
security. In supervised learning, an algorithm is trained on a labeled dataset, where the correct
output is known for each input. The algorithm then uses this training data to make predictions
about new, unlabeled data. In information security, supervised learning can be used to identify
and classify security threats. For example, an algorithm can be trained to identify different types
of malwares based on their characteristics, such as their behavior or signature. Once trained,
the algorithm can be used to identify new instances of malware and classify them accordingly.
Supervised learning can also be used to predict the likelihood of a security incident occurring.
For example, an algorithm can be trained on historical data to identify patterns and trends that
may indicate a potential security incident. This can enable organizations to take proactive
measures to prevent security incidents before they occur. Overall, supervised learning is a

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 28

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

powerful tool in information security, enabling organizations to identify and classify security
threats and predict the likelihood of security incidents.
Unsupervised Learning:
Unsupervised learning is another type of AI algorithm that is used in information security. In
unsupervised learning, an algorithm is trained on an unlabeled dataset, where the correct output
is not known. The algorithm then uses this training data to identify patterns and relationships
within the data.
In information security, unsupervised learning can be used to detect anomalies and unusual
activity. For example, an algorithm can be trained on network traffic data to identify unusual
patterns of behavior that may indicate a cyber attack. This can enable organizations to detect
potential security threats before they cause significant damage. Unsupervised learning can also
be used to identify potential vulnerabilities in an organization's security controls. For example,
an algorithm can be trained on system logs to identify patterns of behavior that may indicate a
potential weakness in the organization's security controls. Overall, unsupervised learning is a
powerful tool in information security, enabling organizations to detect anomalies and unusual
activity and identify potential vulnerabilities in their security controls.
Reinforcement Learning:
Reinforcement learning is a type of AI algorithm that is less commonly used in information
security, but has the potential to be a powerful tool in certain use cases. In reinforcement
learning, an algorithm learns through trial and error, receiving feedback in the form of rewards
or penalties for its actions. In information security, reinforcement learning can be used to
improve the effectiveness of security controls. For example, an algorithm can be trained to
make decisions about whether to allow or block access to a system based on the behavior of the
user. The algorithm would receive feedback in the form of rewards or penalties based on the
effectiveness of its decisions in preventing security incidents.
Reinforcement learning can also be used to automate the process of identifying and prioritizing
security threats. For example, an algorithm can be trained to prioritize security threats based on
the potential impact of the threat on business operations. The algorithm would receive feedback
in the form of rewards or penalties based on the accuracy of its prioritization. Overall, while
reinforcement learning is not as commonly used in information security as supervised or
unsupervised learning, it has the potential to be a powerful tool in certain use cases, particularly
in automating decision-making and improving the effectiveness of security controls.
Strengths and Limitations of Each Approach
Each type of AI algorithm in information security has its own strengths and limitations, and the
appropriate approach will depend on the specific use case and the data available. Supervised
learning is a powerful tool for identifying and classifying security threats and predicting the
likelihood of security incidents. Its strength lies in its ability to make accurate predictions based
on a labeled dataset. However, its limitation is that it requires a large, high-quality labeled
dataset, which may not always be available. Unsupervised learning is a powerful tool for
detecting anomalies and unusual activity, and identifying potential vulnerabilities in an
organization's security controls. Its strength lies in its ability to identify patterns and
relationships within unlabeled data. However, its limitation is that it may generate false
positives or miss critical security threats, particularly if the dataset is noisy or contains outliers.
Reinforcement learning is a powerful tool for automating decision-making and improving the
effectiveness of security controls. Its strength lies in its ability to learn from feedback and

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 29

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

improve its decisions over time. However, its limitation is that it may not always be practical
or feasible to provide the necessary feedback for the algorithm to learn effectively. Overall, the
appropriate approach will depend on the specific use case and the data available. Organizations
should carefully evaluate the strengths and limitations of each approach and select the approach
that is best suited to their needs.

Ethical and Legal Implications of AI in Information Security

Issues related to Privacy and Data Protection:
One of the main ethical and legal implications of AI in information security relates to privacy
and data protection. As AI algorithms are trained on vast amounts of data, including personal
and sensitive information, there is a risk that this data may be misused or mishandled.
Organizations that use AI in information security must ensure that they comply with relevant
data protection laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
in the European Union. They must also ensure that they have appropriate safeguards in place
to protect personal and sensitive information from unauthorized access, use, or disclosure.
Another issue related to privacy and data protection is the potential for bias in AI algorithms.
If an algorithm is trained on biased data, it may perpetuate and amplify that bias, potentially
leading to discriminatory outcomes. Organizations that use AI in information security must
ensure that they regularly audit their algorithms for bias and take steps to mitigate any identified
biases. Overall, organizations that use AI in information security must be mindful of the privacy
and data protection implications of their use of AI, and ensure that they comply with relevant
laws and regulations, and have appropriate safeguards in place to protect personal and sensitive
information.
Potential Biases in AI Algorithms:
As AI algorithms are trained on vast amounts of data, including historical data, there is a risk
that they may perpetuate and amplify biases that exist in the data. For example, an algorithm
that is trained on historical data that contains biases against certain demographic groups may
perpetuate and amplify those biases in its decision-making. Organizations that use AI in
information security must be mindful of the potential for biases in their algorithms and take
steps to mitigate them. This may include regular auditing of algorithms for bias, diversifying
training data to ensure that it is representative of all demographic groups, and using techniques
such as adversarial training to deliberately expose algorithms to examples that challenge their
biases. Addressing biases in AI algorithms is not only an ethical imperative, but also a legal
one. Many countries have laws and regulations that prohibit discrimination based on certain
characteristics, such as race or gender. Organizations that use AI in information security must
ensure that their algorithms do not perpetuate or amplify biases that could result in
discriminatory outcomes. Overall, addressing potential biases in AI algorithms is a critical issue
for organizations that use AI in information security, and requires ongoing vigilance and effort
to ensure that AI is used in a fair and equitable manner.
Accountability and Responsibility in the Use of AI Technology:
As the use of AI technology becomes more widespread in information security, there is a
growing need for accountability and responsibility in its use. This includes accountability for
the outcomes of AI decision-making, and responsibility for ensuring that AI is used in a fair
and ethical manner. Organizations that use AI in information security must ensure that they
have appropriate governance structures in place to oversee the use of AI, and that they are
transparent about their use of AI and the outcomes of AI decision-making. They must also
ensure that they have appropriate training and education programs in place for employees who

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 30

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

work with AI, to ensure that they understand the potential ethical and legal implications of AI
and how to use it responsibly.
In addition, there is a growing need for accountability and responsibility among AI developers
and vendors. AI developers and vendors must ensure that their algorithms are designed and
tested in a manner that is transparent and ethical, and that they are regularly audited for biases
and other ethical issues. Overall, accountability and responsibility are critical issues in the use
of AI technology in information security, and require ongoing attention and effort to ensure that
AI is used in a manner that is fair, transparent, and ethical.
Regulatory and Legal Frameworks for the Use of AI in Information Security:
As the use of AI in information security continues to grow, there is a need for regulatory and
legal frameworks to ensure that AI is used in a fair, transparent, and ethical manner. These
frameworks may include laws and regulations that govern the use of AI, standards for the
development and deployment of AI algorithms, and guidelines for the ethical use of AI.
Several countries have already implemented regulatory and legal frameworks for the use of AI
in information security. For example, the European Union's General Data Protection
Regulation (GDPR) includes provisions related to the use of AI in decision-making, and
requires organizations to provide transparency and accountability in their use of AI. In addition,
there are several industry groups and organizations that have developed standards and
guidelines for the development and deployment of AI algorithms in information security. For
example, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) has developed a set of
ethical standards for AI, and the Partnership on AI has developed a set of best practices for the
ethical use of AI. Overall, the development of regulatory and legal frameworks for the use of
AI in information security is an important issue, and requires ongoing attention and effort to
ensure that AI is used in a manner that is fair, transparent, and ethical.

Emerging Trends and Technologies in AI and Information Security:

In recent years, there have been several emerging trends and technologies in AI and information
security that are shaping the future of the field. From a 2018 perspective, some of the key trends
and technologies include:

• Deep Learning: Deep learning algorithms, which use neural networks to analyze
complex data, are becoming increasingly popular in information security. These
algorithms have been shown to be highly effective in detecting anomalies and
identifying potential threats.

• Natural Language Processing: Natural language processing (NLP) is a branch of AI

that focuses on understanding and processing human language. NLP has potential
applications in information security, such as analyzing social media data to identify
potential threats.

• Blockchain: Blockchain technology, which is best known for its use in

cryptocurrencies, has potential applications in information security as well. For
example, blockchain could be used to create a tamper-proof audit trail of security
events.

• Federated Learning: Federated learning is a type of machine learning in which

multiple devices or systems collaborate to train a shared model. This approach has

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 31

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

potential applications in information security, such as allowing multiple organizations

to collaborate on threat intelligence sharing while maintaining data privacy.

• Explainable AI: Explainable AI (XAI) is an emerging field that focuses on developing

AI algorithms that are transparent and can provide explanations for their decision-
making. XAI has potential applications in information security, as it could help security
analysts understand the reasoning behind AI-based security decisions.
These emerging trends and technologies are shaping the future of AI and information security,
and are likely to have a significant impact on the field in the coming years.
While there have been significant advancements in AI and information security in recent years,
there are still many opportunities for further research and development in the field. Some of the
key areas for future research and development include:

• Robustness and Security of AI Algorithms: One of the key challenges in the use of AI
in information security is ensuring the robustness and security of AI algorithms. Future
research could focus on developing methods for testing and validating AI algorithms
to ensure their accuracy and robustness.

• Privacy-Preserving AI: Another area for future research is privacy-preserving AI. As

organizations increasingly rely on AI for information security, there is a need to ensure
that sensitive data is protected and that user privacy is maintained. Future research
could focus on developing methods for AI-based security that protect user privacy and
maintain data confidentiality.

• Human-Machine Collaboration: While there is significant potential for AI to enhance

information security outcomes, it is important to ensure that humans remain central to
the decision-making process. Future research could focus on developing methods for
effective human-machine collaboration in information security, such as developing
interfaces that allow humans to provide feedback and control over AI-based security
decisions.

• Ethics and Accountability: As the use of AI in information security becomes more

widespread, there is a growing need for ethical frameworks and accountability
mechanisms to ensure that AI is used in a fair, transparent, and ethical manner. Future
research could focus on developing ethical guidelines for the use of AI in information
security, as well as mechanisms for holding organizations and individuals accountable
for the outcomes of AI-based security decisions.
There are many opportunities for further research and development in the field of AI and
information security, and continued innovation in this area is likely to have a significant impact
on the future of information security.

Conclusion
This article has explored the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and information security,
discussing the challenges and opportunities associated with the use of AI in enhancing security
outcomes. We began by discussing the evolving nature of cyber threats and the increasing
complexity of IT environments, highlighting the limitations of traditional rule-based security
systems. We then explored the advantages of AI in information security, including its ability to
process large amounts of data quickly, detect anomalies and unusual activity, automate threat
response, and provide real-time insights into security events.

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 32

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

We also discussed the importance of human-machine collaboration in information security, and

the potential for AI to augment human capabilities in this area. We explored the different types
of AI algorithms used in information security, including supervised, unsupervised, and
reinforcement learning, and discussed their strengths and limitations. The article also addressed
the ethical and legal implications of AI in information security, highlighting issues related to
privacy and data protection, potential biases in AI algorithms, and the need for accountability
and responsibility in the use of AI technology. We also discussed regulatory and legal
frameworks for the use of AI in information security. Finally, we explored emerging trends and
technologies in AI and information security from a 2018 perspective, and discussed
opportunities for further research and development in the field. Overall, this article highlights
the significant potential of AI in enhancing information security outcomes, while also
emphasizing the need for ethical frameworks and accountability mechanisms to ensure that AI
is used in a fair, transparent, and ethical manner.
The discussion in this article has several implications for the future of information security and
the role of AI technology in this area. Firstly, the use of AI in information security is likely to
become increasingly widespread as organizations seek to leverage the advantages of AI in
detecting and responding to potential security threats. However, as the use of AI becomes more
widespread, there will be a growing need for ethical frameworks and accountability
mechanisms to ensure that AI is used in a fair, transparent, and ethical manner. Secondly, the
role of humans in information security is likely to evolve in response to the increasing use of
AI. While AI has the potential to augment human capabilities and enhance security outcomes,
it is important to ensure that humans remain central to the decision-making process and that the
use of AI is transparent and understandable to humans.
Finally, as emerging trends and technologies continue to shape the field of AI and information
security, it is important to maintain a focus on research and development to ensure that AI
algorithms are robust, secure, and effective in enhancing security outcomes. This will require
continued innovation and collaboration between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers
to develop effective and ethical solutions that meet the evolving needs of the field. In
conclusion, AI has the potential to significantly enhance information security outcomes, but its
use must be balanced with ethical considerations and accountability mechanisms to ensure that
it is used in a fair, transparent, and ethical manner. As the field of AI and information security
continues to evolve, it will be important to maintain a focus on research and development to
ensure that AI is used effectively and responsibly in enhancing security outcomes.
[1]–[19]

References
[1] H. S. Rhee, C. Kim, and Y. U. Ryu, “Self-efficacy in information security: Its influence
on end users’ information security practice behavior,” Comput. Secur., 2009.
[2] K. C. Laudon and J. P. Laudon, “Essentials of management information systems,” 2015.
[3] D. Li and Y. Du, “Artificial intelligence with uncertainty,” 2007.
[4] R. Trifonov, G. Tsochev, and S. Manolov, “Increasing the level of network and
information security using artificial intelligence,” and Information …, 2017.
[5] M. Dhingra, M. Jain, and R. S. Jadon, “Role of artificial intelligence in enterprise
information security: a review,” 2016 fourth international, 2016.
[6] A. Dwivedi, R. K. Bali, M. A. Belsis, R. N. G. Naguib, P. Every, and N. S. Nassar,
“Towards a practical healthcare information security model for healthcare institutions,” in

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 33

JAMM Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Management Open Access

4th International IEEE EMBS Special Topic Conference on Information Technology

Applications in Biomedicine, 2003., 2003, pp. 114–117.
[7] B. Li, B. Hou, W. Yu, X. Lu, and C. Yang, “Applications of artificial intelligence in
intelligent manufacturing: a review,” of Information Technology & Electronic …, 2017.
[8] R. Talwar and A. Koury, “Artificial intelligence–the next frontier in IT security?,”
Network Security, 2017.
[9] T. C. Clancy and N. Goergen, “Security in Cognitive Radio Networks: Threats and
Mitigation,” in 2008 3rd International Conference on Cognitive Radio Oriented Wireless
Networks and Communications (CrownCom 2008), 2008, pp. 1–8.
[10] B. Biggio, G. Fumera, and F. Roli, “Security Evaluation of Pattern Classifiers under
Attack,” IEEE Trans. Knowl. Data Eng., vol. 26, no. 4, pp. 984–996, Apr. 2014.
[11] S. Srivastava, A. Bisht, and N. Narayan, “Safety and security in smart cities using artificial
intelligence—A review,” 2017 7th International, 2017.
[12] D. D. Clark and D. R. Wilson, “A comparison of commercial and military computer
security policies,” 1987 IEEE Symposium on Security and, 1987.
[13] N. Shetty, G. Schwartz, and M. Felegyhazi, “Competitive cyber-insurance and internet
security,” of information security and …, 2010.
[14] H. Cavusoglu and H. Cavusoglu, “Economics of ITSecurity Management: Four
Improvements to Current Security Practices,” for Information Systems, 2004.
[15] J. N. Ezingeard and E. McFadzean, “A model of information assurance benefits,” Inf.
Syst., 2005.
[16] M. Gerber, R. von Solms, and P. Overbeek, “Formalizing information security
requirements,” Inf. Manage., 2001.
[17] L. A. Gordon and M. P. Loeb, “The economics of information security investment,” ACM
Trans. Inf. Syst. Secur., 2002.
[18] B. Bulgurcu, H. Cavusoglu, and I. Benbasat, “Information security policy compliance: an
empirical study of rationality-based beliefs and information security awareness,” Miss. Q.,
2010.
[19] R. H. Weber, “Internet of Things–New security and privacy challenges,” Computer law &
security review, 2010.

J. Artif. Intell. Mach. Learn. Manag. 2018 34