GCHQ’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has warned that a ‘digital divide’ between organisations that can keep pace with AI-enabled threats and those that cannot is set to heighten the UK’s overall cyber risk.
A report released on the first day of the CYBERUK conference indicates that artificial intelligence is likely to shorten the time frame between the disclosure of vulnerabilities and their exploitation by malicious entities. The NCSC advises organizations to adhere to guidelines for the secure implementation of AI tools and to uphold protective security measures across their broader systems.
The report warns that by 2027, tools powered by artificial intelligence are expected to significantly enhance the capabilities of threat actors in exploiting known vulnerabilities. It notes that the interval between the disclosure of vulnerabilities and their exploitation has already diminished to mere days, and AI is likely to further shorten this timeframe, creating additional challenges for network defenders.
Furthermore, the report indicates that the increasing integration of AI models and systems within the UK’s technological framework, especially in critical national infrastructure and areas lacking adequate cybersecurity measures, will likely expand the attack surface and provide more opportunities for adversaries.
As AI technologies become increasingly integrated into business operations, organizations are being urged to take decisive action to bolster their cyber resilience and defend against AI-driven cyber threats.
Paul Chichester, NCSC Director of Operations, said: “We know AI is transforming the cyber threat landscape, expanding attack surfaces, increasing the volume of threats, and accelerating malicious capabilities.
“While these risks are real, AI also presents a powerful opportunity to enhance the UK’s resilience and drive growth—making it essential for organisations to act.
“Organisations should implement strong cyber security practices across AI systems and their dependencies and ensure up-to-date defences are in place.”
