SANS Institute Introduces Directive for Businesses on Safe Utilization of Artificial Intelligence
The SANS Institute, a renowned cybersecurity training and certification organisation, has recently released an AI security blueprint called "Own AI Securely". This comprehensive guide aims to provide a structured, innovative model for organisations to adopt AI securely and responsibly.
The blueprint is divided into three tracks: Protect AI, Utilize AI, and Govern AI. The Utilize AI track emphasises the use of AI tools within Security Operations Centres (SOC) and cybersecurity functions for accelerated detection, triage, and response. The Protect AI track focuses on securing AI systems from poisoning, prompt attacks, and data leaks, while the Govern AI track highlights the importance of executive leadership, clear oversight, compliance frameworks, and AI fluency for organisational alignment with regulations.
Rob T. Lee, the Chief of Research and Chief AI Officer at SANS Institute, stated that the blueprint gives structure to an environment that lacked clear direction and is built on field-tested insights. He further added that leaders are looking for a way to act, not just generic headlines about the fast-evolving threat landscape.
The blueprint addresses complex questions around AI safety, compliance, and operational control, which are increasingly important as AI systems become more prevalent in both public and private sectors. As security teams require emerging skills to defend AI systems that evolve faster than existing playbooks, the Secure AI Blueprint is designed to develop a capable, skilled AI cybersecurity workforce within organisations.
The UAE, positioning AI as a transformative force for the nation's governance, growth, societal wellbeing, and economic diversification, has integrated AI as a key driver of future prosperity. The UAE National Strategy for AI 2031 aims to create new pathways for growth, boost efficiency, and support long-term sustainability, with AI projected to contribute up to 13.6% of the UAE's GDP by 2030.
By 2026, global AI spending is projected to surpass USD 300 billion. The Secure AI Blueprint is mapped to 14 industry-leading training courses and a series of GIAC certifications, ensuring that organisations can equip their teams with the necessary skills to secure their AI systems effectively.
The Secure AI Blueprint is not a repetition of earlier facts presented in the previous bullet points. It is a significant step towards providing reliable, outcome-focused guidance that reflects the operational, technical, and governance realities of enterprise-scale AI. With the growing need for such guidance, the Secure AI Blueprint is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI security.
