As artificial intelligence becomes more widely adopted, cybersecurity professionals are facing growing pressure to develop new skills, understand emerging risks and keep pace with technologies that are changing faster than traditional training programmes can respond.
Speaking to IT Security Guru, Matthew Piddington from ISC2 discussed the organisation’s plans to introduce its first dedicated AI security certification, alongside the wider challenges facing the cybersecurity profession.
ISC2 is a global not-for-profit organisation representing approximately 270,000 cybersecurity professionals. It provides professional development opportunities and nine certifications, including the internationally recognised Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) qualification.
A New Certification for AI Security
One of ISC2’s biggest priorities has been developing a dedicated certification focused on AI security.
More than 7,000 volunteers from around the world are currently helping to shape the certification, including defining the examination content, relevant job roles and the knowledge professionals will need to demonstrate.
According to Piddington, the initiative responds to growing demand from both cybersecurity and AI professionals for clearer governance and recognised standards around AI security.
ISC2 hopes the qualification will eventually achieve the same level of industry recognition as CISSP, which has been established for approximately 30 years.
The organisation is targeting the first beta examinations for the first quarter of 2027, with a wider rollout planned from April onwards.
Cyber Warfare, AI and Quantum Computing
Beyond certification, Matthew highlighted several issues keeping cybersecurity professionals on alert.
Geopolitical tensions remain a significant concern, particularly as cyber warfare becomes an increasingly important consideration during periods of international conflict. Security teams must remain prepared for vulnerabilities being exploited, regardless of the sectors in which they operate.
AI is creating another challenge. Its rapid adoption is introducing new security risks, while the pace of technological development is making it difficult for organisations and professionals to keep up.
Looking further ahead, ISC2 is also considering the implications of quantum computing and the skills cybersecurity professionals will need to address future threats.
For Matthew, ensuring the industry has the right expertise is essential to building a safer digital future.
Watch the full interview to hear more about ISC2’s AI security certification, the changing cybersecurity skills landscape and the threats shaping the profession’s future.
