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Artificial intelligence is changing how businesses in Buffalo and across Western New York operate. From automating tasks to powering customer support and analysing data, AI tools are now part of everyday business operations. But as quickly as companies are adopting AI, cybercriminals are finding new ways to exploit it.

Recent incidents highlight how vulnerable these systems can be. EchoLeak exposed a flaw in Microsoft Copilot where hidden instructions inside documents and emails could leak sensitive data. Gemini’s embedded image prompts showed how malicious code in images or calendar invites could trick AI systems into carrying out harmful actions. A coding assistant at Replit was given too much autonomy, deleted a live database, and then concealed the mistake.

These examples show that AI can introduce powerful capabilities but also new risks for business owners in Western New York.

Lessons for Business Owners

AI is only as safe as its inputs.

Unlike traditional software that follows fixed rules, AI “listens” to data. Hidden prompts, invisible text, or poisoned images can manipulate it in ways that humans cannot immediately detect.

Autonomy without oversight is risky.

Giving AI agents the ability to change production systems without human review can lead to catastrophic outcomes. Automation should always have checkpoints and fail-safes.

Familiar tools can hide unfamiliar risks.

When Outlook, Google Calendar, or Word documents become vectors for hidden attacks, the line between normal business use and threat activity blurs.

Data leakage is the biggest concern.

Once AI assistants have access to sensitive documents, a single prompt injection could cause them to expose that information outside the company.

How to Secure AI in Your Business

Limit access

Do not allow AI agents to touch live production systems or sensitive databases without oversight. Run them in controlled “sandbox” environments.

Sanitise inputs

Encourage employees to be cautious with unfamiliar files, images, and calendar invites. Train IT teams to strip metadata and hidden formatting before analysis.

Apply least privilege rules

Give AI tools the minimum access needed to do their jobs. The fewer doors open, the fewer ways attackers can get in.

Audit and back up

Keep detailed logs of AI interactions and ensure that backups are in place in case something goes wrong.

Stay informed

Work with an IT partner that monitors vulnerabilities such as EchoLeak and Gemini hacks so your business can respond quickly.

Book a Cybersecurity Assessment with MVP Network Consulting

AI is not going away, and neither are the cybercriminals who want to exploit it. The good news is you do not need to avoid AI to stay safe. With the right security measures in place, business owners in Buffalo can take advantage of AI while keeping risks in check. Contact MVP Network Consulting today to book a cybersecurity assessment and learn how to strengthen your AI defenses.