Jamf predicts future trends in AI, education & security
Technology executives at Jamf have provided insights into future trends related to artificial intelligence (AI) usage, online safety in educational institutions, the maturation of generative AI (genAI) technologies, and the evolving role of Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs).
Michael Covington, Vice President of Portfolio Strategy at Jamf, highlighted the necessity for businesses to develop more mature AI assessment procedures. He noted that the proliferation of generative AI requires companies to implement sweeping policies to restrict AI usage and manage data protection effectively. Covington stated, "With generative AI quickly becoming a pervasive fixture in the technology landscape, businesses are reacting with catch-all policies to restrict usage and control how sensitive information and intellectual property flows outside the organisation's data protection boundary." He emphasised the importance of creating foundational rubrics to allow timely decision-making without bottlenecking oversight processes, fostering a better understanding of AI data processing locations and confidentiality requirements.
Suraj Mohandas, Vice President of Strategy, emphasized the imperative of online safety measures in schools due to the increasing use of AI technology. Mohandas noted a shift in technology usage in education, where administrators and teachers are using advanced tools to enhance learning and ensure students' safety online. He said, "We're seeing a fundamental shift in how technology and mobile devices are being utilised in the classroom. Administrators and teachers have moved beyond teaching technology skills (and having to be taught technology skills themselves) to using technology to enhance learning across all subjects. Now that students have access to these tools at their fingertips, we'll see educational institutions push to maximise impact for individual students, which also involves prioritising their safety." Mohandas pointed out the risks associated with AI in cyber-attacks, predicting a strong push towards enhanced encryption protocols and AI-powered threat detection tools.
Linh Lam, Chief Information Officer at Jamf, forecasted a clearer understanding of genAI's effectiveness in the business environment over the coming years. Lam remarked on the rapid expansion of companies into the genAI market and predicted a shift in focus towards solutions that demonstrate tangible value. She explained, "Household name companies in cybersecurity to small new start-ups with 10 employees have quickly entered the genAI market over the past year or two. It's a crowded space that can easily overwhelm even leaders of technology companies who are looking to select the right genAI solution for their businesses." She predicted that 2025 would be pivotal in identifying the value and performance of genAI tools.
Andy Smeaton, Chief Information Security Officer at Jamf, expressed concerns over the pressures and legal risks faced by CISOs, leading some to consider less senior roles. Smeaton referenced recent high-profile security incidents and changing regulatory requirements as factors contributing to this trend. He stated, "Over the past few years, we've seen security leaders at major companies like Uber and SolarWinds face repercussions for cyber incidents at their organisations. The SEC's reporting rules also place immense pressure on CISOs to disclose 'material' cyber incidents in a timely manner—without a ton of clarity around what 'material' means or how incidents should be disclosed." Smeaton anticipated that the mounting pressures could lead to an awareness shift in 2025 regarding the mental health impact on industry leaders.
These forecasts underscore significant considerations for various sectors as AI becomes increasingly integrated into business operations and educational initiatives, with implications for data security and personal liability for leaders in the tech industry.
