2025 the year of ai agents.

In 2025, the proliferation of AI agents—autonomous systems capable of performing tasks and making decisions—has become a defining trend in technology. As these agents gain access to the internet and handle business-critical data, ensuring their security is paramount.

What is an ai agent

An AI agent is an advanced form of artificial intelligence that doesn’t just offer advice—it takes action. Built to operate autonomously, AI agents can make decisions and carry out tasks on your behalf based on the goals and permissions you set. Unlike traditional AI tools that need you to guide them step by step, AI agents are designed to work independently, handling entire processes from start to finish.

Think of an AI agent as a personal assistant that not only tells you what needs to be done but also goes ahead and does it. Whether it’s scheduling appointments, making purchases, or managing complex projects, an AI agent has the capability to execute tasks without requiring constant input from you.

Risks when implementing Agentic AI

As with all new technology this new set of tools and processes comes with some risks that needs to be controlled from an organisational perspective

Data Exposure and Exfiltration

AI agents often require access to sensitive information to function effectively. Without proper controls, there's a risk of unauthorized data exposure or breaches. For instance, if an AI agent is compromised, it could inadvertently leak confidential business data, leading to significant financial and reputational damage. 

Unauthorized or Malicious Activities

The autonomous nature of AI agents means they can execute tasks without human oversight. This autonomy, while beneficial for efficiency, poses risks if agents are misguided or maliciously manipulated. Potential threats include unauthorized transactions, data manipulation, or even system disruptions.

Increased Attack Surface

Integrating AI agents into business operations expands the attack surface for cybercriminals. Each agent represents a potential entry point for attacks, and as they interact with multiple systems and external data sources, the complexity and potential vulnerabilities increase. 

Compliance and Privacy Challenges

Deploying AI agents necessitates adherence to data protection regulations. Ensuring that these agents handle data in compliance with laws like GDPR is crucial to avoid legal repercussions. Moreover, maintaining transparency in how AI agents process and utilize data is essential for building trust with stakeholders.

Mitigation Strategies

To address these security concerns:

• Implement Robust Access Controls: Ensure AI agents have the minimum necessary access to data and systems, reducing potential misuse.

• Continuous Monitoring: Regularly monitor AI agent activities to detect and respond to anomalies promptly.

• Data Encryption: Encrypt sensitive data both at rest and in transit to protect it from unauthorized access.

• Regular Audits: Conduct periodic security audits to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in AI agent deployments.

As AI agents become integral to business operations, prioritizing their security is essential to safeguard data, maintain compliance, and protect organizational integrity.