Gartner Advises Firms to Prohibit AI Web Browsers Amid Security Fears

Core Insights from ZDNET

Gartner analysts caution companies against utilizing AI-enhanced browsers for the time being.

AI-driven browsers, which are often termed 'agentic browsers', are reshaping internet activities, from searches to productivity tasks.

Given the pervasive integration of AI tools across sectors, its inevitable arrival in the market for web browsers was expected.

Major companies behind popular browsers are integrating artificial intelligence in areas like search, user interaction, and security. Simultaneously, startups such as OpenAI and Perplexity are offering their versions of AI browsers.

AI browsers provide opportunities for research, content curating, and customized experiences. While they can streamline efforts, they don't guarantee the correctness of responses or data safety.

In Gartner's recent analysis titled "Cybersecurity Must Block AI Browsers for Now," it highlighted that while AI-driven browsers show promise in changing web interactions, they come with significant security threats.

Understanding the Hazards of AI Browsers

Dennis Xu, Evgeny Mirolyubov, and John Watts of Gartner note that AI browsers prioritize user satisfaction at the expense of security.

Capable of executing tasks and engaging with websites autonomously, AI browsers present dangers both for individual users and business environments.

A hypothetical scenario includes an AI assistant accidentally engaging with a harmful website or mishandling corporate secrets without secure backend protection, potentially causing severe data leaks.

Gartner further warns that using AI for routine job automation could lead employees to overlook important learning experiences, such as those acquired during cybersecurity training.

Significance of This Advisory

Many organizations, not just Gartner, are expressing concern over AI browser-related security risks.

Security professionals are vigilantly assessing the progress of AI browsers, citing threats like unauthorized data collection, injection attacks, and amplified personal monitoring.

Gartner advises security evaluations of AI tools, including backend systems, to establish their security profile. Early findings suggest that AI browsers might not meet necessary security benchmarks.

Based on these evaluations, companies might decide to restrict AI browser usage. Simultaneously, educating employees about the drawbacks of excessive AI reliance, particularly regarding confidential data, is imperative.

Javvad Malik from KnowBe4 states, "Though AI browsers boast enhanced user capabilities, the current phase presents unassessed risks and prioritizes ease over security, akin to numerous emerging technologies. While outright bans are rarely viable, tailored risk strategies should foster cautious adoption."