AI Security: Why Community Matters More than Ever

In AI security, the pace of change is relentless. New capabilities and threats, multiple guidelines, LinkedIn Posts, and bold vendor claims land in our feeds daily. For busy cyber teams, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The answer isn’t to chase a single perfect standard. When DSIT launched the UK’s AI Cyber Security Code of Practice (now adopted as an ETSI standard), it aimed to cut through complexity. I had the privilege of authoring the Implementation Guide, designed to help organisations apply the CoP in practical, real-world settings — drawing on the great work of OWASP, NIST, MITRE, NCSC and others, offering a navigational compass based on lifecycle.

But that's not enough. What really moves the dial is conversations and networks of trust and shared experiences.  Practical experiences in real settings, beyond thought leadership pieces or myriad posts on AI threats and exploits. In this avalanche of posts and information we need to connect, collaborate, and share what works in today’s realities, and act as sensible real-world sandboards.

That’s why I believe so strongly in the power of trusted communities.  Open dialogue builds clarity and trust. It helps teams cut through noise, spot the 10% of threats that matter most, and get the most from tools they already have. Without this, even the best controls can create blind spots or a false sense of security.

OWASP continues to demonstrate the value peer review and openness. techUK the leading UK trading association has also stepped up — convening voices from across sectors to align efforts, share knowledge, and guide policy with real-world insights in Cyber and AI. The CyberExhange and AI Hub and their forthcoming September event on AI and Cyber, are a good place to start.

And if you’re in London on 25 June, come join the conversation in person. We’re bringing together leaders from DSIT, the FCA, DWP and Kaizen for an hour of practical insight and open discussion, aiming to be the first step towards a UK AI Cyber network of practice that a Securing AI in Action: Bridging Policy, Innovation & Implementation

Let’s keep learning from each other. Uplifting Cyber for the AI era is a team sport.