Cyber Threats in AI Era Rise as BDO Indonesia Pushes for Integrated Governance and Data Protection
As companies rapidly adopt technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and digital transformation, their focus is no longer solely on innovation but also on digital trust, governance, and accountability.
In today’s complex digital landscape, organisations are required not only to innovate swiftly but also to manage risks that increasingly intertwine technology, cybersecurity, and data protection.
In Indonesia, this urgency is evident. The National Cyber and Crypto Agency (BSSN) recorded over 3.6 billion cyber attack anomalies in 2025, indicating that cyber threats are no longer sporadic but massive and sustained.
Simultaneously, the implementation of the Personal Data Protection Law (UU PDP) reinforces that data protection is no longer merely a compliance issue but a legal, financial, and reputational priority for businesses.
In response to these dynamics, BDO Indonesia has bolstered its IT Advisory capabilities by appointing Erikman Pardamean as IT Advisory Partner. Renowned for extensive experience in helping organisations navigate complex technological challenges, particularly in IT GRC, cybersecurity, privacy, and AI governance, he has supported various cross-sector organisations, including finance, state-owned enterprises (BUMN), and digital industries.
According to Erikman Pardamean, technological advancements such as AI bring new challenges that require comprehensive anticipation.
‘The rapid adoption of AI presents significant business opportunities but also introduces new risks, such as potential data misuse, algorithmic bias, and lack of transparency. This makes the need for robust governance and responsible oversight increasingly critical,’ Erikman stated.
Erikman notes that the biggest challenge organisations face today is not just technological complexity but managing the interconnections between AI, cybersecurity, and data protection holistically. In many cases, these three aspects are still managed separately, creating risk gaps that cyber attackers can exploit.
Further, Reza Aminy, Associate Director of IT & Digital at BDO Indonesia, emphasised the importance of awareness among all stakeholders involved in AI, cybersecurity, and data protection. ‘Comprehensive understanding from all stakeholders is essential to build strong synergies,’ he said.
‘With integrated awareness, organisations are not only better prepared to mitigate new AI-driven risks such as potential data misuse and algorithmic bias but also ensure regulatory compliance, protect business reputation, and ultimately build a sustainable foundation of digital trust in the public eye,’ Reza added.
In response to the evolving digital risk landscape, Johanna Gani, a BDO Indonesia leader, stated that building digital trust now requires a broader approach than merely technological investment.
‘Organisations must ensure that governance, culture, and decision-making evolve alongside innovation acceleration,’ she said.
‘In an era where technology evolves faster than ever, trust is as crucial as innovation itself. Organisations must view AI, cybersecurity, and data protection as part of business strategy, not merely technical or compliance functions. When these three aspects align, companies are not only better equipped to handle risks but also capable of building long-term relationships with customers, investors, regulators, and all stakeholders,’ Johanna stated.
The synergy of these three elements is now key to building sustainable digital trust. An integrated approach not only helps organisations reduce risks but also enhances preparedness for regulatory changes, stakeholder expectations, and rapid technological advancements. Without strong synergy, innovation efforts could inadvertently increase risk exposure, directly impacting business continuity and corporate reputation.
‘Moving forward, the biggest challenge for organisations is no longer adopting technology but ensuring every innovation aligns with trust. AI, cybersecurity, and data protection can no longer be viewed as separate functions but as an interconnected foundation for building digital trust. Organisations that effectively align these elements will not only be more resilient to risks but also gain a competitive edge in winning market and stakeholder trust,’ Erikman said.
Through strengthened IT Advisory capabilities, BDO Indonesia is committed to continuing to support organisations in building robust digital trust foundations through an approach that integrates innovation, security, and governance sustainably.