Artificial intelligence for cybersecurity enhancement

Abstract

Abstract. The rapid digitalization of society has fundamentally transformed how individuals, organizations, and governments operate. While digital technologies facilitate global interconnectedness, efficiency, and speed, they also introduce vulnerabilities that cybercriminals exploit. Traditional cybersecurity methods, although effective in many cases, are no longer sufficient to confront increasingly sophisticated and large-scale cyberattacks. This underscores the need for new approaches that can adapt to dynamic environments, anticipate potential threats, and respond in real time. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is emerging as one of the most promising tools in this regard. This study aims to explore the potential of AI to enhance cybersecurity in the digital environment. By analyzing the functions and mechanisms of AI applications, the paper highlights how intelligent algorithms can be used not only for threat detection but also for prevention, mitigation, and adaptive protection of digital infrastructures. This research is vital because cyber threats like phishing, ransomware, and state-sponsored cyber operations are worsening, so we need new, proactive ways to protect ourselves. AI-based systems can process and analyze vast amounts of data faster and more accurately than human specialists. For example, machine learning models can spot unusual trends in user behavior or network traffic that may indicate malicious activity. Unlike traditional signature-based methods, AI does not require prior knowledge of a threat to detect it. Alternatively, it is predicated on the identification of anomalies, which facilitates the implementation of early warning systems that significantly reduce response time. This capacity to learn and adapt makes AI a unique solution in combating new and previously unknown cyberattacks.