TL;DR: During its Asia-Pacific Tech University event in Bangkok, LogRhythm conducted a survey gathering insights from channel partners on their perceptions of AI adoption. The survey revealed that the main challenge to AI adoption is the lack of skilled professionals (35%). Surprisingly, cost was not a major barrier, with only 15% citing cost-related issues. Over a third of LogRhythm’s channel partners reported that their clients are now using AI tools, emphasizing a growing momentum for AI adoption. However, concerns around cybersecurity threats persist, with 62% believing that AI expands the current threat surface. Data privacy concerns, particularly regarding large language models, were highlighted, with 47% expressing worries about data leaks.

LogRhythm, at its recent Asia-Pacific Tech University event, conducted a survey to gauge the views of its channel partners on AI adoption and the associated risks. The survey provided valuable insights into the challenges and momentum surrounding AI adoption in the region.

Challenges in AI Adoption

The lack of skilled AI professionals emerged as the primary challenge to AI adoption, with 35% of respondents identifying it as a significant obstacle. Integration with existing systems followed closely at 23%, while surprisingly, only 15% reported cost-related issues hindering their AI adoption efforts. Joanne Wong, Vice President, International Markets, LogRhythm, emphasized the importance of human expertise in bridging the gap between AI capabilities and unique organizational requirements.

Momentum in AI Adoption

The survey indicated a growing momentum for AI adoption, with over a third of LogRhythm’s channel partners reporting that their clients are currently using AI tools. Notably, around two-thirds of these partners are integrating AI into their operations, with operational efficiency being the primary driver for these deployments.

Cybersecurity Concerns in the AI Boom

While optimism surrounds the promise of AI in driving operational efficiency, concerns persist regarding the cybersecurity threats associated with the AI boom. A substantial 62% of respondents believe that AI results in a moderate expansion of the current threat surface. Data privacy concerns, especially related to large language models, were highlighted, with 47% expressing worries about potential data leaks. Additionally, 18% were particularly anxious about leaks of proprietary business data.

Mitigating Risks and Addressing Concerns

Businesses are proactively addressing these concerns by undertaking risk assessments and establishing internal AI usage policies and guidelines, both actions reported by 28% of respondents. Joanne Wong emphasized the need for a measured approach to AI adoption, considering the increased threat landscape due to nefarious uses of AI. She highlighted the importance of investing in the right tools and resources to monitor and act on potential threats at speed and scale.

“It is reassuring to see businesses take measures like risk assessments and provision of internal guidelines. While the potential of AI to transform operational efficiencies and drive bottomline is immense, it is just as important that businesses take a measured approach to the adoption of AI,” Wong noted.

“This includes managing the associated security and privacy risks associated with its implementation, acknowledging that the threat landscape has significantly increased with the availability of nefarious AI,
and investing in the right tools and resources that can monitor and action on potential threats at speed and scale” added Wong.