Accenture enhances cybersecurity offerings with GenAI and quantum solutions

IT consultancy firm Accenture has unveiled a range of advanced cybersecurity services powered by Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and quantum-safe solutions, designed to bolster resilience and address the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

To enhance its global cybersecurity capabilities, Accenture is expanding its network of facilities with the launch of new Cyber Future Centers. Among the notable additions are a Quantum Security Center and Lab, as well as a Cyber Physical Security Center, both located in Bengaluru. These centers will leverage advanced technologies to address evolving cyber threats and deliver innovative security solutions.

This initiative comes amid a growing concern over AI-enhanced cyberattacks, including a staggering 223% rise in the trade of deepfake tools on dark web forums during the first quarter of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023. Accenture's efforts aim to help organisations navigate these challenges by providing innovative solutions that enhance their cyber defense capabilities.

The new services focus on multiple dimensions of cybersecurity. Accenture's Secure AI Solutions ensure resilience throughout the AI lifecycle, from developing secure frameworks to detecting vulnerabilities in AI systems, including large language models (LLMs), the company said in a statement.

The Deepfake Protection service employs enhanced detection tools to identify and counter the growing use of deepfake technology in critical communication channels. Meanwhile, the Business Cyber Crisis Recovery solution is designed to minimise downtime and restore essential operations within hours after a cyberattack. The Quantum Security Suite offers robust strategies to replace outdated encryption methods with quantum-safe algorithms, safeguarding sensitive data against future quantum computing threats.

The company has also integrated Generative AI into its core cybersecurity offerings through its centralised platform, mySecurity. This platform enables faster threat detection, response, and prevention across various domains, including supply chain, cloud, and identity management. A notable example of Accenture's efforts is its partnership with Kuwait's Central Agency for Information Technology to establish a National Security Operations Center, enhancing the nation's ability to detect and counter emerging threats.

In 2024, Accenture’s cybersecurity workforce grew by over 30%, reaching more than 25,000 professionals globally. The company also reported significant achievements in Generative AI, securing $2 billion in bookings for AI projects this fiscal year. Julie Sweet, Accenture's CEO, emphasized the importance of these advancements, highlighting how they empower businesses to embrace digital transformation securely while safeguarding critical assets.

Accenture’s strategic focus on cybersecurity and Generative AI underscores its role as a leader in the digital transformation space, ensuring that businesses can innovate confidently in a rapidly changing technological landscape.