Exploring AI? Do Not Overlook the Security Risks

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming a powerful tool for businesses. From automating workflows to improving customer service, organizations are exploring AI to improve efficiency and reduce costs. Many are even running models locally to maintain more control. 

A recent discovery by cybersecurity researchers serves as a critical reminder: running AI on your own systems does not guarantee it is safe. 

What Happened 

Cybersecurity analysts recently found that several AI models hosted on the popular open-source source platform Hugging Face contained hidden malware. These models were designed to slip past routine security checks but would still execute harmful code once loaded into a local environment.

This incident highlights a real concern for business owners. Even when using trusted platforms, AI experimentation can introduce serious threats into your environment. 

For readers who want a deeper, technical look at how malicious models can be embedded in AI platforms, Reversing Labs has published a detailed analysis: here 

What This Means for Your Business 

AI has tremendous upside. It also brings new risks that many organizations have not encountered before: 

• Hidden malware inside open-source AI models or tools 

• Sensitive company data being unintentionally exposed 

• Unaware violations of privacy, compliance, or data residency requirements 

These issues do not come from carelessness. They come from the complexity of AI technology and the lack of built in safeguards for business settings. 

If your business operates in Canada, privacy requirements around AI are evolving quickly. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada has a dedicated section on AI and privacy: Office of the Privacy Commissioner 

Quick Checklist: How to Protect Your Business When Exploring AI 

Before experimenting with AI tools or downloading models, use this simple checklist to reduce risk: 

Verify the source of every AI model you download

Avoid unverified or recently uploaded repositories. Even reputable platforms can host malicious files. 

Test AI tools in a controlled or isolated environment

Never run new models directly on production systems or company devices. 

Confirm your cybersecurity tools are active and updated

Endpoint protection, DNS filtering, and modern malware protection should be in place before running anything locally. You can learn more about the Nucleus cybersecurity and managed security approach here: Cyber Security Services 

Review what data you plan to feed into AI tools

Ensure it does not include sensitive customer information, financial data, employee records, or regulated content. 

Document who is using AI within your organization

Even small teams benefit from basic oversight and governance. Clear guidelines reduce the risk of shadow IT and unsanctioned tools. 

When in doubt, ask an expert

AI security is new territory for most businesses. A quick conversation can prevent costly mistakes. 

If any item on this checklist is uncertain, reach out to the Nucleus team. We can help you evaluate tools, protect your data, and adopt AI safely.

Where Nucleus Can Help 

If you are exploring AI or planning to bring it into your workflows, Nucleus can help you do so securely, strategically, and in compliance with your requirements. 

We support businesses in several key areas:

Reviewing Your AI Use Case

We help you choose tools that respect privacy, limit data exposure, and align with your business goals. For organizations that need broader IT strategy support, you can learn more about our consulting services here: IT Consulting 

Protecting Sensitive Company Data

We ensure your environment has the right security and compliance controls in place before AI tools are deployed. 

Choosing Safe Deployment Options

Whether you host AI locally, in the cloud, or in a hybrid setup, we help ensure the configuration is secure, monitored, and properly governed. 

Strengthening Your Overall Defenses

Our layered security approach provides multiple lines of protection, including: 

• Endpoint detection and response 

• Next generation malware protection 

• DNS and web filtering 

• Continuous monitoring and alerting 

AI can be transformative for your business. Implementing it safely requires the right foundation and the right partner. 

Final Thoughts 

Exploring AI is a smart move for many businesses. Doing it safely is even smarter. Even well intentioned experimentation can expose sensitive data or introduce threats without the proper safeguards. 

If you are thinking about integrating AI into your business, the Nucleus team is here to help you do it securely, confidently, and with clarity.