A recent security incident involving a major music festival ticketing platform highlights a growing reality for organisations worldwide: artificial intelligence is accelerating both cyber threats and cyber defence.
Speaking with Ryan Bridge on Herald Now, Gorilla Technology CEO Paul Spain discusses how a security researcher used AI to identify a serious vulnerability that could have enabled the creation of unlimited free event tickets. Fortunately, the flaw was discovered and disclosed responsibly before it could be exploited. The timing is significant. Just days earlier, cybersecurity leaders from the Five Eyes nations, including New Zealand, issued a warning that organisations must strengthen their cybersecurity posture in response to rapidly advancing AI capabilities. Paul Spain notes that AI is increasingly being used to uncover vulnerabilities hidden within software and systems, in some cases flaws that have existed for years without detection.
AI is lowering the barrier to discovering security weaknesses, making it more important than ever to take a proactive approach to cybersecurity. That includes patching systems, retiring unsupported legacy technology, assessing security risks before acquiring new platforms, and continuously monitoring environments for suspicious activity. As Paul Spain points out, many organisations still lack a clear understanding of their cyber risks and do not regularly audit their security posture. This serves as another reminder that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Whether you’re running a business or managing your household technology, keeping software updated, using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and remaining vigilant online are increasingly essential habits.
Artificial intelligence offers tremendous opportunities, but it is also fuelling a new cybersecurity arms race. The organisations and individuals who proactively address cyber risk today will be best positioned to thrive tomorrow.