The increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools in cybersecurity may lead to a reduction in entry-level jobs, according to a new survey from ISC2 . The survey, which examined the impact of AI adoption on cybersecurity teams, found that nearly a third (30%) of cybersecurity professionals have already integrated AI security tools into their operations .
The ISC2 survey, which included 436 cybersecurity professionals globally, examined the impact of AI adoption on team effectiveness, entry-level jobs, and cybersecurity hiring . AI tools were defined as “AI-enabled security solutions, generative AI, and/or agentic AI for automatic action” .
The survey findings indicate that 52% of respondents believe that AI will significantly or somewhat reduce the need for entry-level staff . However, 31% expressed a more optimistic view, believing that AI will also create new types of entry-level and junior roles . Additionally, 44% of respondents agreed that their organization's cybersecurity hiring has not yet been impacted by the adoption of AI tools .
ISC2 Chief Qualifications Officer Casey Marks stated that AI is reshaping how organizations operate, and cybersecurity is no exception . The survey indicates a cautious but growing interest in AI tools, with adoption expected to accelerate in the future . He also highlighted that AI is helping cybersecurity professionals by automating repetitive tasks, enabling them to focus on more meaningful work .
Of those who have already adopted AI security tools, 70% report positive impacts on their team's overall effectiveness . The top five areas where AI security tools are expected to have the most positive impact include improving efficiencies and automating time-consuming tasks, such as network monitoring and intrusion detection .
However, the survey also highlights that organizations are facing increased risk and disruption in 2024, due to economic pressures and geopolitical uncertainties . Alongside these issues, organizations and professionals have had to keep pace with rapidly advancing technology innovations such as AI .
Overall, the ISC2 survey underscores the need for a careful approach to AI adoption in cybersecurity, considering both the opportunities and challenges it presents .