The push to deploy AI agents in business continues. From augmenting workflows to fully automating them, agents can support organizations by accepting a goal, rather than rigid instructions for how to reach it. Yet, this so-called “agent sprawl” leads to new security questions and concerns.
Strengthening your business's security posture around AI agents is the latest task for IT security teams, balancing risk and opportunity while embracing new technologies. From understanding the spectrum of agency in AI agents to identifying the critical need for data management and risk assessment, the opportunities and risks that AI agents present for businesses are plentiful. That’s why Steve Wilson, Project Lead at OWASP Foundation & Chief Product Officer at Exabeam, joined me on “What’s the BUZZ?” to talk about the emerging security considerations and threats of Agentic AI and multi-agent systems.
Understanding Agency in AI Agents
One of the most significant aspects of AI agents is the varying degrees of agency they possess. You can think of it as a sliding scale. In practical terms, when you deploy an AI agent, you must consider what tasks it will handle and what authority it will have. For example, a simple chatbot might only assist customers; it has limited agency. However, an agent with more comprehensive capabilities to resolve payment disputes could potentially execute high-stakes actions within your business environment.
As organizations start to use AI agents in various capacities, they need to discern between giving agents minimal agency for low-risk tasks and allowing them more extensive capabilities for more significant contributions. This matters because higher agency often comes with greater security risks. If an agent can access sensitive data or take impactful actions without proper checks, that could lead to vulnerabilities that malicious actors could exploit. Understanding the level of agency you grant your AI agents is key to creating effective security protocols tailored to your specific operational needs.
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Realizing the Importance of Data Management and Risk Assessment
Data management is another important aspect when integrating AI agents into your business. Organizations must be clear upfront about what information agents can access and use. Just like humans, AI agents can make mistakes or be manipulated, particularly if they are given too much data without precise guidelines.
To counter these risks, conduct a thorough risk assessment related to data access. Determine what level of information your agents need to perform their duties effectively. If an AI agent needs access to a database or sensitive customer information, ensure that it only has access to the data necessary for its function. This precaution is the first step in mitigating the risk of data leaks or insider threats, especially when we consider the potential for multiple agents acting concurrently and communicating with each other.
» Excessive agency is asking for security problems to happen. I have a [piece of software] that is not smart, but I give it a lot of agency. «
— Steve Wilson
Employing a minimal data access approach and establishing robust protocols can create a safer environment for both your agents and the organization overall. Establish regular audits and monitoring practices to ensure that data access aligns with your security standards.
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Beyond the security concerns, there is a range of opportunities for businesses that effectively deploy AI agents. Organizations that recognize the potential of these tools can streamline processes, enhance productivity, and reduce operational costs.
Consider the example of a marketing or sales agent. Instead of relying solely on human representatives to engage prospective customers, AI agents can handle preliminary inquiries and streamline communication, allowing human agents to focus on high-level decision-making and relationship-building.
This creates an environment where one person can achieve what previously required an entire team. Innovative startups are already leveraging agents in ways that were unfathomable just a couple of years ago. With the right security measures in place, the combination of agency and oversight can lead to transformative improvements in business operations.
Summary
It’s important to understand the agency levels of your AI agents and to implement strict data management practices. By addressing these points, organizations can navigate the complex landscape of AI agent deployment effectively and securely. By taking proactive steps in these areas, you position your organization to safeguard against potential threats and leverage the benefits of this technology.
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