Generative AI (GenAI) tools are transforming the way organisations operate, streamlining everything from content creation to workflow automation across sales, marketing, product development, and IT. With 65% of companies now using GenAI in at least one business function—and this figure set to rise—security is more crucial than ever. Without robust protection, these tools can expose your business to data breaches, cyber-attacks, and compliance failures.
Here are seven essential security practices to ensure your GenAI tools deliver value without putting your enterprise at risk.
1. Set Acceptable Use Policies for AI Applications
Establish clear Acceptable Use Policies (AUP) specifically for GenAI tools. Define your company’s overall stance on AI adoption, specify which GenAI applications are permitted, and set out when, where, and how staff may use them. Outline what information can be shared and the consequences of misuse, such as additional training or sanctions. This clarity helps prevent accidental data leaks and ensures compliance with regulatory requirements.
2. Know What AI Applications Are in Use
Visibility is key to security. Work with your IT department to audit all GenAI applications in use—including those accessed outside official channels, sometimes referred to as “shadow AI”. Understanding which tools are in use, who is using them, and how they interact with your network enables you to enforce security policies effectively and identify potential risks, especially as GenAI applications are often latency-sensitive.
3. Secure Data Outside the Data Centre
AI adoption has made enterprise architecture more distributed, with users connecting from branch offices or remote locations. Protecting data outside the traditional data centre is essential. Security enforcement should be placed along optimal network paths to ensure both protection and a seamless user experience, regardless of where your staff are located.
4. Separate “Users” from “Abusers”
Not all users pose the same level of risk. Apply a zero-trust approach by granting access to GenAI models only to authorised users after appropriate checks. Use security solutions to enforce your AUP, monitor user activity, and inspect content for threats or sensitive data loss. This approach helps distinguish between legitimate users and potential abusers, tightening security without hindering productivity.
5. Protect AI Applications and Users from Outside Traffic
Third-party vendors and partners often require network access but may not adhere to your security standards. Isolate enterprise and GenAI application traffic from guest or external user traffic using network segmentation. This prevents unauthorised lateral movement within your network and ensures only vetted traffic interacts with sensitive AI systems. Apply segmentation at all branch locations for comprehensive protection.
6. Build Layers of Defence Against Data Breaches and Attacks
Adopt a multilayered security strategy, including:
- Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA)
- Network segmentation
- Application visibility and control
- Content inspection
Leverage threat intelligence from endpoints, e-mails, and the internet to proactively defend against breaches. Regular, targeted security training for employees—aligned with evolving GenAI policies—further strengthens your defences and keeps your team vigilant.
7. Find the Right Technology Partner
Implementing these best practices requires the right technology partner. Seek providers offering:
- Comprehensive threat and data protection (e.g., anti-malware, DLP, CASB)
- Enhanced edge security through SASE and SD-WAN
- Remote access solutions optimised for hybrid workforces
- Centralised configuration, policy management, and actionable threat insights
A trusted partner can help you design, deploy, and manage secure, scalable GenAI infrastructure while ensuring compliance and business continuity.
Why Choose Digital Carbon?
Digital Carbon is your expert co-managed service provider for VeloCloud SD-WAN and SASE services. We specialise in the design, deployment, training, and management of SD-WAN, ensuring your network is secure, resilient, and optimised for modern application traffic—including GenAI tools.
Beyond SD-WAN, Digital Carbon can also provide the underlying internet connectivity for your network, including Dedicated Internet Access (DIA), broadband, and Fixed Wireless Access. Our expertise and proactive management enable you to adopt GenAI tools with confidence, knowing your data and operations are protected.
Ready to secure your AI-powered future?
Schedule a discovery call with Digital Carbon today to discover how we can help you implement world-class security for your GenAI tools and network infrastructure. Let’s build a safer, smarter digital enterprise—together.
