AI tools are flooding into corporate environments at a pace that cybersecurity teams can’t keep up with. This rapid adoption is leaving security teams scrambling to understand and protect the myriad new software entering their systems. The implications are significant as sensitive data is increasingly handled by these tools, raising concerns around data security and privacy.
What AI Tools Are Doing to Cybersecurity
Fortinet, a global cybersecurity firm, is on the front lines of this challenge. Robert May, Fortinet’s Executive Vice President of Technology and Product Management, has a clear view of the evolving landscape. Speaking at Fortinet’s TechExpo26 in Montréal, May detailed how AI is reshaping cybersecurity by altering the data organizations need to protect and the systems used to secure it. The Fortinet Security Fabric platform, which May oversees, is designed to monitor network activity, identify threats, and manage incident response. However, with the proliferation of AI tools, these tasks are becoming increasingly complex.
May highlights a common issue: companies often aren’t aware of the AI tools their employees are using, leading to potential security oversights. While AI tools are being integrated into workflows seamlessly, the oversight and control over these integrations are lacking. According to Fortinet’s 2026 Cybersecurity Skills Gap Global Research Report, only half of surveyed leaders believe their board members are fully aware of the risks posed by AI use. This unawareness forces security teams into a reactive stance, dealing with AI implementations after they’ve already occurred rather than proactively managing them.
Competitive Context and Challenges
The competitive landscape for AI tools is vast and rapidly expanding, with thousands of new tools entering the market. This diversity complicates the task for cybersecurity teams who must evaluate the security implications of each tool. A 2025 study by McKinsey found universal AI usage among survey respondents, underscoring the ubiquity of these tools across industries.
Moreover, the skills shortage in cybersecurity is exacerbating the problem. Security teams are often understaffed, struggling to manage the vast flow of data handled by AI tools. This shortage adds a layer of risk, as teams can’t effectively monitor and secure data, which can be especially dangerous when AI tools are used to handle sensitive information. The pressure is on to address these skills gaps to ensure robust cybersecurity measures are in place.
Real Implications for Founders, Engineers, and the Industry
For founders and engineers, the rapid adoption of AI tools presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, AI can streamline operations and drive innovation. On the other, it introduces new security vulnerabilities that must be addressed. Engineers must be vigilant about the tools they choose to integrate, ensuring they comply with security protocols to protect sensitive data.
For the cybersecurity industry, there’s an urgent need to develop solutions that can manage the influx of AI tools. This includes enhancing the capabilities of platforms like Fortinet’s Security Fabric to provide better oversight and control. The industry must also focus on bridging the cybersecurity skills gap to ensure teams are equipped to handle these new challenges.
What’s Next?
As AI tools continue to proliferate, the pressure on cybersecurity teams will only increase. Companies must prioritize understanding the tools their employees are using and the data these tools handle. For founders and engineers, it’s crucial to stay informed about the latest security practices and ensure compliance with data protection regulations. Investment in cybersecurity training and resources will be essential to keeping pace with AI adoption and safeguarding company assets.
