Artificial intelligence has long ceased to be science fiction — it is transforming business at a rapid pace, creating new opportunities while simultaneously generating serious risks. According to forecasts, more than 60% of companies will have integrated AI into all areas of activity by 2028. However, alongside the benefits, concerns are growing about cybersecurity, data privacy, and the ethical aspects of using new technologies.
Download the full report on the International Data Corporation (IDC) survey.
What risks does AI pose?
Generative AI exacerbates existing threats: social engineering, data leaks and governance gaps. As well as technical risks, it is important to consider the impact on staff, how they adapt, and the possibility of becoming overly dependent on AI. A comprehensive approach is required to address ethical issues, the expansion of the attack surface, insufficient governance and regulatory lag (including provisions of the EU AI Act).
How to build an effective AI risk management strategy?
- Create an AI governance committee with representatives from different functions
- Align with global standards (EU AI Act, NIST AI 100-2, ISO/IEC 42005:2025)
- Match AI initiatives with business goals: customer experience, operational efficiency, innovation
- Integrate AI into existing risk management, compliance and governance frameworks
- Appoint an AI lead and ensure cross-functional collaboration to avoid a “single point of failure”
Practical steps for businesses
- Raise employee awareness of the importance of safe and ethical AI use
- Invest in tools to detect and mitigate threats (e.g. data leaks, unauthorised access)
- Restrict access to sensitive information
- Conduct AI impact assessments to identify and eliminate risks
- The greatest AI impact is expected in cybersecurity, compliance monitoring and supply chain management.
How can you stay ahead?
Organisations that embrace the principle of “fail fast — learn fast” tend to integrate AI more effectively. It is important to regularly review objectives, monitor AI effectiveness, update key risk indicators and adapt to changes in the regulatory environment. Flexible management is key to ensuring resilience to change and new threats.
The report is available for download.
A strategic approach to AI risk management is not only a matter of technology, but also of culture, governance, staff training and continuous process improvement. The implementation of AI must be accompanied by a clear strategy, accountability and cross-functional collaboration.
Are you ready to protect your business and maximise the potential of AI? Contact our specialists at BDO in Ukraine — we can help you develop an effective strategy, conduct a risk audit, and train your team in safe innovation practices. Complete the form to request a consultation.
