With the rise of AI-powered security analytics, businesses now have the ability to automate threat detection, analyse massive datasets, and respond to attacks in real time. However, human expertise remains critical, as skilled cybersecurity professionals bring contextual awareness, intuition, and strategic decision-making that AI alone cannot replicate.vTo achieve the most effective defence against cyber intrusions, businesses are adopting a hybrid approach, combining AI-driven threat detection with human-led threat hunting. Here’s how organisations attending the Cyber Secure Forum are balancing automation with cybersecurity expertise…
1. The Role of AI in Intrusion Detection & Prevention
AI-driven Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) are revolutionising how businesses detect and mitigate cyber threats. Key AI capabilities include:
✔ Real-Time Threat Detection – AI algorithms continuously monitor network traffic, analysing patterns to detect suspicious behaviour and anomalies.
✔ Automated Incident Response – AI-powered Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) and Extended Detection and Response (XDR) platforms can isolate compromised endpoints and neutralise threats instantly.
✔ Predictive Analytics – Machine learning models identify early indicators of attacks, allowing organisations to prevent breaches before they occur.
✔ Threat Intelligence Integration – AI continuously ingests global threat intelligence, ensuring organisations stay ahead of emerging attack vectors.
While AI enhances speed and efficiency, it lacks the ability to understand business context, intent, and sophisticated attack chains—this is where human analysts come in.
2. Why Human Threat Hunting Is Still Essential
Despite AI’s strengths, cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics to evade automated defences. Human threat hunters provide:
✔ Contextual Awareness – Analysts can differentiate between false positives and genuine threats, reducing alert fatigue and unnecessary responses.
✔ Advanced Attack Investigation – AI may detect an anomaly, but human analysts trace attack paths, investigate lateral movement, and determine the full scope of a breach.
✔ Adaptive Defence Strategies – Cybercriminals often manipulate AI models, requiring human security teams to detect adversarial attacks and adjust defence mechanisms.
✔ Incident Response Coordination – While AI can take initial actions, cybersecurity professionals ensure compliance with regulatory frameworks and handle complex mitigation efforts.
3. The Hybrid Approach: AI + Human Expertise
UK organisations are leveraging AI to automate repetitive tasks while empowering human analysts to focus on high-priority threats and strategic defence planning. Best practices include:
✔ Using AI for initial threat detection and human teams for in-depth investigation.
✔ Deploying AI-powered security orchestration to streamline responses, allowing human experts to oversee and fine-tune incident management.
✔ Conducting regular red team/blue team exercises to test both AI-driven defences and human-led security strategies.
AI and human threat hunting are not competing forces but complementary assets in intrusion detection and prevention. By adopting a hybrid security strategy, businesses can maximise speed, accuracy, and resilience against cyber threats, ensuring a stronger and more adaptive defence against evolving attacks.
Are you searching for Intrusion Detection & Prevention solutions for your organisation? The Cyber Secure Forum can help!
