Hawaii Small Businesses Get a Cybersecurity Boost with AI Training
The University of Hawaiʻi Maui College is stepping up to help local businesses navigate the increasingly complex world of cybersecurity. A series of free online clinics, starting with “Security using GenAI” on February 18th, are designed to equip sole proprietors and small business owners with the knowledge to defend against growing cyber threats.
The Rise of AI in Cybersecurity: A New Frontier
Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the cybersecurity landscape. While offering powerful new tools for defense, it likewise introduces new vulnerabilities. The upcoming clinic, moderated by Debasis Bhattacharya, professor and program coordinator of the UH Maui College Applied Business and Information Technology Program, aims to bridge this gap.
Participants will learn how generative AI can identify unusual activity and patterns that traditional security systems often miss. The training will also cover the basics of “prompt engineering” – crafting effective instructions for AI tools – and how to navigate data privacy concerns.
Beyond Detection: Automating Response and Reducing Risk
The clinic isn’t just about identifying threats; it’s about responding to them quickly and efficiently. Attendees will explore how AI can automate threat detection and accelerate incident response times, minimizing potential damage. Experts Jodi Ito, UH’s chief information security officer, and David Stevens, assistant professor at Kapiʻolani Community College, will lead the session.
According to Bhattacharya, tools like ChatGPT are popular because of their ability to learn from vast amounts of internet data and respond in a user-friendly way. However, he cautions about potential risks, including data privacy loss, training bias, and “hallucinations” – inaccurate or misleading information generated by the AI.
Addressing the “Shadow AI” Problem
A key focus of the clinic will be addressing the risks associated with “shadow AI” – the use of AI tools by employees without proper oversight or security protocols. Businesses need to understand how to manage these risks while still maximizing the benefits of AI-powered security.
The clinics are supported by a $1 million grant and additional funding from Google’s Cybersecurity Clinics Fund, highlighting the growing importance of cybersecurity education and training.
What You’ll Learn: A Practical Toolkit
- Anomaly Detection: Discover how generative AI can spot unusual patterns that indicate a potential cyberattack.
- Prompt Engineering: Master the art of crafting effective prompts to get the most out of AI security tools.
- Data Privacy: Learn how to protect sensitive business data while leveraging the power of AI.
- Incident Response: Automate your response to cyber threats and minimize downtime.
Pro Tip:
Regularly update your AI security tools and stay informed about the latest threats and vulnerabilities. Cybersecurity is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix.
FAQ
Q: Who should attend these clinics?
A: Sole proprietors and small business owners in Hawaiʻi.
Q: How much do the clinics cost?
A: The clinics are free.
Q: How do I register for the “Security using GenAI” clinic?
A: Register online.
Q: Where can I locate more information about the UH Cybersecurity Clinics?
A: Visit the University of Hawaiʻi Cybersecurity Clinics website.
Did you know? Small businesses are increasingly targeted by cyberattacks, often lacking the resources to adequately protect themselves.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Take proactive steps to secure your business with the help of the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College’s free cybersecurity clinics. Explore additional resources on cybersecurity best practices and stay ahead of the evolving threat landscape.
