AI IN CYBERSECURITY: STRENGTHENING DEFENSES AGAINST EVOLVING CYBER THREATS

Abstract

The rapid evolution of cyber threats in today's digital ecosystem necessitates advanced and adaptive security mechanisms. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in cybersecurity, offering proactive, real-time, and predictive capabilities that surpass traditional defense systems. This paper explores how AI strengthens cybersecurity by enabling automated threat detection, anomaly recognition, behavioral analysis, and rapid incident response. Through machine learning algorithms, neural networks, and natural language processing, AI enhances threat intelligence and reduces response time, making it a vital tool against malware, phishing, ransomware, and zero-day vulnerabilities. However, the integration of AI also raises concerns related to data privacy, adversarial attacks, and ethical implications. This study highlights the dual nature of AI in cybersecurity — both as a protective shield and a potential vector for sophisticated attacks — while emphasizing the need for continuous innovation, human-AI collaboration, and robust governance frameworks to ensure resilient digital infrastructure.