AI Cyberattacks Are on the Rise — Here’s How to Protect Your Business

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming how businesses operate. From automating customer service to improving productivity, there is seemingly no aspect of modern business untouched by the stunning advances in AI. But as AI technology evolves, so do the tactics of cybercriminals. Today’s scams are more convincing than ever, and every business, from large corporations to small local shops, is at risk.

How AI Makes Scams More Believable

With the help of AI, criminals can now use deepfake tools to clone a person’s voice or image. That means a phone call or email that sounds like your boss or business partner might not actually be them. These scams often pressure employees into sharing passwords, transferring funds, or revealing confidential data.

AI also allows hackers to comb through public information about your company, using those details to craft personalized phishing emails that look authentic. The result? Attacks that are faster, smarter, and much harder to detect than traditional scams.

Phishing attempts alone have skyrocketed, increasing by more than 1,200% thanks to generative AI tools.*

Why Small Businesses Are Especially Vulnerable

It’s a common misconception that only big companies get targeted. In reality, small and mid-sized businesses make up the majority of victims. Last year, more than 70% of ransomware attacks were aimed at smaller operations.*

For these businesses, the financial hit from a cyberattack can be devastating. Beyond the cost of stolen data or system recovery, there’s the loss of customer trust — and that’s often the hardest thing to rebuild.

Smart Steps to Stay Protected

The good news: with awareness and preparation, you can significantly reduce your risk.

• Educate your team. Regularly train employees on how to recognize phishing emails, suspicious links, and unusual requests.

• Stay updated. Keep your software, firewalls, and antivirus programs current to help block known threats.

• Back up your data. Store backups securely offline or in the cloud so you can recover quickly if an attack occurs.

And even with strong defenses, mistakes can happen. That’s why cyber liability insurance is so important.

Why Cyber Liability Coverage Matters

A cyber policy can help cover the costs associated with an attack — including data recovery, legal expenses, customer notifications, and even ransom payments.

At Roland, Abbott, & DeZoort Insurance, we partner with Auto-Owners Insurance and other trusted carriers to offer cyber liability protection tailored to your business needs. Coverages can include: 

• The disclosure of private information 

• Transmission of a computer virus 

• Extortion payments and rewards (typically involving ransomware) 

• Computer and funds-transfer fraud

Don’t Wait Until After an Attack

AI may be changing the game, but your business doesn’t have to face these risks alone. With the right combination of awareness, preparation, and protection, you can stay one step ahead.

If you’d like to learn more about protecting your business from cyber threats, call Roland, Abbott, & DeZoort Insurance today at (478) 745-7200 or stop by our Macon office. We’ll help you find coverage that fits your business so you can move forward with confidence.