The Dark Side of AI: Educating 50 Business Leaders on the Real Cyber Risks

March 9th, 2026

Cyber criminals don’t stand still. As technology evolves, so do the tactics used by those trying to break into business systems. Artificial Intelligence is one of the biggest developments shaping the digital world today  and unfortunately, it is also rapidly changing the way cyber attacks are carried out.

To help local organisations understand these emerging threats, AMP InfoSys recently hosted its Q1 Cyber Security Event, bringing together 50 business leaders from across Lancashire and the North West. The event focused on a critical topic: how hackers are now using AI to make attacks faster, smarter and more convincing than ever before.

The session was delivered in partnership with Huntress, a global cybersecurity company that works alongside MSPs to detect and respond to real-world cyber threats. Their expertise provided attendees with an invaluable insight into what is actually happening behind the scenes in today’s threat landscape.

Why AI is Changing Cyber Security

Artificial Intelligence is often talked about as a productivity tool. It's something that helps businesses write content, analyse data, or automate tasks. However, the same technology is also being adopted by cyber criminals.

During the event, attendees learned how attackers are now using AI to:

• Generate highly convincing phishing emails that mimic real colleagues or suppliers

• Automate large-scale attacks against businesses

• Write malicious code faster than ever before

• Research organisations online to create more targeted attacks

• Use deepfake voice and video technology to impersonate senior staff

What once required a skilled hacker working for hours can now be generated by AI tools in seconds. This significantly lowers the barrier for criminals and increases the volume of attacks businesses face every day.

Real Threats, Not Theoretical Ones

One of the most powerful aspects of the event was hearing real examples of attacks being detected and stopped by Huntress’ security analysts.

Rather than discussing theoretical risks, the audience gained insight into the actual methods hackers are currently using against businesses just like theirs. This included examples of compromised accounts, ransomware deployment attempts, and how attackers move silently through networks once they gain access.

For many attendees, it was a wake-up call. The message was clear: cyber security is no longer just an IT issue - it is a business risk.

Security Is About Layers, Not a Single Solution

A key takeaway from the afternoon was that effective cyber protection doesn’t come from a single product or tool. It requires a layered approach to security, combining prevention, detection and response.

Topics discussed included:

• The importance of strong identity protection

• Monitoring systems 24/7 for suspicious behaviour and preventing breaches

• Security awareness training for employees

• Email protection and phishing defence

Businesses that rely on a single security measure are far more vulnerable than those that take a comprehensive approach.

Supporting the Local Business Community

At AMP InfoSys, education has always been a key part of helping organisations stay secure. Events like this are designed to give business leaders the knowledge they need to understand modern cyber risks and make informed decisions about protecting their organisations.

The event also raised £2,020 for Derian House Children’s Hospice, including donations made on behalf of guests who attended. Supporting the community while helping businesses strengthen their cyber resilience made the afternoon even more meaningful.

Looking Ahead

The pace of technological change is accelerating, and AI will continue to play a role in both cyber defence and cyber attacks.

What remains constant is the need for businesses to stay informed, prepared, and protected.

Events like this are just one way AMP InfoSys works with organisations across the region to ensure they understand the risks and have the right security measures in place - before problems occur rather than after damage is done.