Jeff Hunt recently met with several Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) to get their thoughts on how they are applying the latest Machine Learning techniques to their Cyber Security strategy. Judy President, JB Homer Associates

Machine Learning is a method of data collection and analysis that automates analytical predictive model building and allows computers to identify insights without human intervention. Due to the rapidly changing Cyber Security landscape, Machine Learning is playing a significant role in shaping the CISO's strategy, now and in the future. The latest Machine Learning software contains a variety of algorithms that gives computers the ability to automatically apply complex mathematical calculations to large sets of data, identify risks and anticipate problems before they occur. These algorithms help computers adapt and evolve to identify and combat patterns of suspicious behavior and to detect new attacks.

CISOs are utilizing Machine Learning to develop predictive models for fraud detection, network intrusion detection, e-mail spam filtering, and malware detection, resulting in increased detection rates, the discovery of attack vectors that enable cyber criminals to exploit previously undetectable vulnerabilities, and to identify infected computers on the corporate network. In terms of data retention and security, Machine Learning algorithms are being used to help identify best practices and strategies for sharing data inside and outside the organization, and to identify and combat the intrusion acts of malicious insiders.

The risk of malware such as Ransomware, has been growing exponentially and is affecting organizations because of the lack of recovery strategies. Ransomware programs get distributed in a variety of ways, most commonly through malicious e-mail attachments, so it's vital to continuously update Machine Learning e-mail spam filtering and intrusion detection software in order to stay one step ahead of sophisticated and determined hackers in this regard.

Considering the number of major security breaches organizations have suffered, and the creative ways that cyber criminals are discovering to infiltrate seemingly secure corporate systems, Machine Learning techniques need to be constantly upgraded.

What are some of the ways you have seen Machine Learning help shape the Cyber Security strategy and what do you see as its next evolution?