Expert Opinion: Why small businesses must pay attention to AI powered cyber attacks

With AI powered cyber attacks now representing the majority of threats facing businesses, Dave Taylor from Stockport-based Amshire IT, explains why small businesses should take note of the risks as much as larger ones.

AI is no longer just driving innovation. It is now driving cyber crime, and powering around 80% of malware.

A growing proportion of cyber attacks are powered by AI. These systems can learn, adapt and operate at a speed that human attackers simply cannot match.

While ransomware often makes the headlines, it is only part of the picture. AI is now being used to:

• Create highly convincing phishing emails
• Crack passwords at incredible speed
• Bypass verification systems
• Generate deepfake voice calls that sound genuine

This puts small and medium businesses directly in the firing line.

The Real Risk for Your Business

AI gives attackers a serious advantage. They can test thousands of entry points in seconds. Meanwhile, your business has to defend every single one.

It only takes one weakness for an attacker to succeed.

This imbalance is what makes AI powered cyber attacks such a serious and growing risk.

Traditional Protection Is No Longer Enough

I still see many businesses relying on basic antivirus software and ad hoc updates. That approach simply cannot keep up with intelligent, constantly evolving threats.

Older systems often react after damage has started. Modern security needs to predict, adapt and respond in real time.

How AI Can Also Work in Your Favour

The good news is that AI is also strengthening cyber defences.

Advanced tools can now:

• Monitor for unusual behaviour
• Predict likely attack patterns
• Respond automatically to potential threats
• Detect problems before critical systems are reached

When combined with good practices and employee awareness, this creates a much stronger security foundation.

Why a Layered Approach Matters Most

No single solution will protect your business on its own.

The strongest defence comes from a layered security strategy that combines:

• Regular patching and updates
• Employee awareness and training
• Advanced monitoring and threat detection
• Clear policies and governance

Together, these layers create a safer, more resilient environment that can adapt as threats evolve.

Now Is the Moment to Act

AI powered cybercrime is accelerating. Attackers are becoming more sophisticated and more automated every day.

Waiting only increases the risk to your data, your operations and your reputation.

Hackers can now scam you using emails that look completely legitimate. They can appear to come from someone you already work with, in real time. You are then directed to a genuine looking login page where your username and password are captured. This is happening more often than many businesses realise.

Awareness of these tactics is essential. So is making sure your team knows how to spot and report suspicious activity quickly. At the same time, relying on outdated technology leaves your business data exposed and vulnerable to attack.

Just stopping an attack when it’s already happening is not enough, you need to be aware, prepare and prevent.