AI Accelerates Cyber Threats, Digital Literacy Must Be Strengthened

The development of artificial intelligence (AI) is making cyber threats increasingly complex. These risks are no longer limited to large companies, as individuals and small business owners are also becoming more vulnerable to cyber attacks. This situation highlights the importance of strengthening digital literacy, AI governance, and public awareness of security in the digital space.

Wakil Rektor of Governance, Resources, and Strategic Partnerships at Binawan University, Farouk Abdullah Alwyni, stated that cyber security cannot rely solely on technological advancements. “Digital security is not just about relying on technology. We also need digital literacy, good governance, and a commitment to ethics,” he said during an international webinar.

Farouk noted that while AI offers significant opportunities for innovation and increased productivity, its use also introduces new risks if not accompanied by responsible understanding and application. Therefore, enhancing public comprehension of digital security is becoming increasingly critical alongside the wider use of AI in various activities.

Data from the IBM Cost of a Data Breach 2025 report indicates that the average global loss from data breaches reached 4.44 million US dollars. The same report found that 97 percent of organisations experiencing security incidents related to AI lacked adequate AI access controls. This finding reveals a gap between the rapid adoption of AI and the readiness of security systems to anticipate its risks. Closing this gap requires strengthening governance and human resource capacity.

Co-Founder and CEO of Cykube, Sharjil Ahmed, stated that the changing cyber security landscape means the potential victims are no longer limited to large entities. “Cyber threats are no longer confined to large corporations. Individuals and small businesses are increasingly becoming targets,” he said. He added that bridging the cyber protection gap requires ongoing education and collaboration among stakeholders, not just sophisticated security technology.

Binawan University believes higher education institutions have a strategic position in strengthening digital security literacy. This role is not only through research and innovation but also by preparing human resources who understand the risks, ethics, and impacts of AI use. Through the webinar, the university encouraged the strengthening of digital literacy for students, academics, professionals, and the public, aiming to shape human resources that are adaptive to technological developments while maintaining awareness of security, ethics, and responsibility in AI utilisation.