Don’t Have a GenAI Security Policy? You’re In Serious Trouble

As more businesses are adopting generative AI (GenAI), the need to develop security-based GenAI policies has become more critical. The rapid integration of GenAI into business processes has outpaced the development of comprehensive security guidelines, posing serious risks to data privacy and security, according to an article by Michael Hill on CSOonline.

For chief information security officers (CISOs) and Legal Ops professionals, the message is clear: If you don’t have a strong GenAI policy, you need to develop one. You not only need to craft cybersecurity policies that support the adoption of GenAI, you need to address the risks without stifling innovation. 

Most organizations, regardless of size or industry, are experiencing the same problems around how to control and manage the secure use of GenAI. NetSkope CISO Neil Thacker has posited that while an effective AI security policy can be based on people, process, and technology, GenAI puts the emphasis on a continual feedback loop relating to business-wide use cases, potential risks, and policy application.

The challenge lies in aligning AI security policies with business objectives, using a top-down approach that acknowledges the diversity of GenAI use cases and tailors security policies to individual company departments.

Data control, encryption, and robust measures around data classification and loss prevention are crucial components of effective GenAI security policies. Policies should also cover the review of AI-generated content for accuracy to guard against potential misinformation.

GenAI security policies need to include supply chain management and third-party oversight, such as conducting due diligence on external AI use and assessing risks and policies of third-party integrations to safeguard against potential threats.

As GenAI introduces new risks, communication and training become crucial elements of security policies. CISOs and Legal Ops professionals need to ensure that policies are conveyed effectively so that employees understand the risks associated with GenAI and use it responsibly.