A new survey has highlighted the increasing reliance on artificial intelligence (AI) among UK businesses, revealing that while 77% of global businesses are pursuing AI, a staggering 91% are unprepared to manage the risks associated with this technology.
The study, conducted by application security SaaS company Indusface, has identified the sectors most heavily invested in AI and the potential dangers of over-reliance on these systems.
Leading Sectors in AI Adoption
The legal sector tops the list, with 30% of UK businesses in this field already integrating AI into their operations, and a further 31% planning to do so. AI is transforming legal services by enhancing research, analysis, and due diligence, but the rapid adoption raises concerns about whether the sector is moving too quickly.
IT and telecoms follow closely, with 29.5% of businesses using AI for network optimisation, predictive maintenance, customer service automation, and security. The finance and accounting sector also shows significant AI engagement, with 26% of businesses employing AI for tasks such as fraud detection, credit risk assessment, and financial reporting.
Despite the clear benefits of AI, including efficiency gains and enhanced service delivery, nearly 60% of the British public express concerns about the technology’s impact. This anxiety is mirrored by industry experts who warn of potential risks associated with heavy AI dependence.
Which UK industries are using AI the most?
|
Rank |
Industry |
Businesses currently using AI (%) |
Businesses planning to use AI (%) |
|
1 |
Legal |
30% |
31% |
|
2 |
IT and Telecoms |
29.5% |
27% |
|
3 |
Finance and Accounting |
26% |
20% |
|
4 |
Media, Advertising and Sales |
20% |
21% |
|
5 |
Transport and Distribution |
17% |
16% |
|
6 |
Manufacturing |
16.5% |
14.5% |
|
7 |
Education |
15.5% |
15.5% |
|
8 |
Construction |
12% |
15% |
|
9 |
Real estate |
12% |
14.5% |
|
10 |
Hospitality and Leisure |
11% |
9% |
*Figures according to Forbes Advisor 2024 AI Report
Risks and Concerns
Venky Sundar, Founder and President of Indusface, highlights several risks associated with AI reliance. He points out that sectors heavily reliant on technology, such as finance and retail, are particularly vulnerable. Sundar warns that while AI can assist in conceptualising and building code, it should not be the sole dependence for software development.
Sundar explains that AI’s role in generating code may inadvertently lead to security vulnerabilities, as AI systems often produce code that lacks secure coding practices. Additionally, the use of large language models (LLMs) as input interfaces can introduce unpredictability, making systems more susceptible to “prompt injections” and other security threats.
Mitigating the Risks
To address these concerns, Sundar advises businesses to treat AI as a supplementary tool rather than a primary one. He emphasises the importance of maintaining rigorous security practices, including vulnerability scanning, penetration testing, patching, and implementing Web Application and API Protection (WAAP) measures.
Sundar also stresses the need for diverse and well-maintained datasets to combat the risks of LLM injections. He advocates for ongoing human oversight to ensure that datasets are both comprehensive and secure.
The Future of AI in Business
As businesses across the UK continue to integrate AI into their operations, it is crucial to balance innovation with caution. While AI offers significant advantages, including improved efficiency and the ability to handle complex tasks, its adoption must be managed carefully to avoid compromising security and privacy.
The findings from Indusface’s survey underscore the need for businesses to develop robust strategies for managing AI risks while harnessing its potential benefits. As AI technology evolves, ongoing vigilance and adaptation will be key to ensuring that its integration into the business world is both effective and secure.
