How has AI changed our lives so far, and how will we be able to coexist with this technology in the future? These are some of the questions that Suad Seferi’s new book, The AI Journey, seeks to answer.

Seferi is a seasoned entrepreneur, coach, and technology professional with over two decades of experience in IT innovations, particularly in cybersecurity, Microsoft Azure, and Microsoft 365 solutions. Now, he has channeled his knowledge into The AI Journey, an interactive guide designed to make AI concepts accessible and engaging for beginners and those interested in understanding the basics and future implications of artificial intelligence.

In an interview with IT Logs, Seferi talks about the goals of the book and what he aims to achieve through it. 

IT Logs: Could you tell us a little about your background and expertise in the field of cybersecurity? How has your career journey led you to focus on the intersection of AI and cybersecurity?

Suad Seferi: My journey in cybersecurity began over two decades ago, at a time when the digital world was much simpler. As technology advanced, so did the complexity and scale of cyber threats. This naturally led me to explore how AI could enhance our defenses. AI, with its ability to process and analyze vast amounts of data, offers unprecedented potential in predicting and mitigating cyber risks. This intersection between AI and cybersecurity is where my passion lies, and it’s a major focus of The AI Journey. The book reflects on how AI can be a game-changer in cybersecurity, especially in a world that is rapidly embracing this technology.

The AI Journey aims to make AI concepts accessible to beginners. How do you see the role of cybersecurity education in relation to AI, especially for those who are new to the technology?

The AI Journey was designed to be a gateway for those curious about AI, much like a “Hello World” program is for new coders. The book takes readers from the very beginnings of AI, offering them a solid foundation to build on. Understanding AI is crucial, but equally important is grasping the basics of cybersecurity, especially as AI becomes more integrated into our lives. For newcomers, learning about AI and cybersecurity in tandem is essential—it’s about building a holistic understanding that prepares them for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

What are some common misconceptions people have about AI in the context of cybersecurity, and how does your work aim to address them?

One common misconception is that AI is a one-size-fits-all solution for cybersecurity problems. In reality, while AI is a powerful tool, it isn’t a magic wand. The AI Journey tackles this misconception by showing how AI needs to be thoughtfully applied, combined with human expertise, and continuously adapted to the evolving threat landscape. The book emphasizes that AI should be seen as a partner in cybersecurity—a tool that enhances human capabilities rather than replacing them.

Your book introduces popular AI tools like ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, and Jasper. How can these tools be leveraged to improve cybersecurity practices, and what limitations should practitioners be aware of?

In The AI Journey, I explore how these tools can be incredibly valuable in improving cybersecurity. These tools can help automate repetitive tasks, identify patterns that might be missed by the human eye, and streamline decision-making processes. However, it’s important to approach these tools with a clear understanding of their limitations. For example, AI tools are only as effective as the data they’re trained on, and they require constant updating to stay relevant. Practitioners should leverage these tools to complement their skills, but always remain vigilant about the potential biases and gaps that AI might introduce.

The book emphasizes hands-on roleplays for understanding AI. Could you share a practical exercise or scenario that readers might engage in to better comprehend AI’s impact on cybersecurity?

One of the things I’m most excited about in The AI Journey is the chapter dedicated entirely to roleplays. These aren’t just theoretical exercises—they’re practical scenarios that span various industries, allowing readers to truly grasp AI’s impact in a hands-on way. For instance, a scenario where participants simulate a cyberattack using AI both offensively and defensively can be eye-opening. It reveals not only the strengths of AI in bolstering cybersecurity but also its vulnerabilities. By engaging in these roleplays, readers can better understand how AI can be both a shield and a sword in the world of cybersecurity.

The book aims to demystify AI for readers. How do you think transparency in AI algorithms can be improved to build trust with users, particularly in cybersecurity applications?

Transparency is crucial for building trust, especially when it comes to something as complex and powerful as AI. In The AI Journey, I discuss how making AI algorithms more transparent can help users feel more confident in the technology. This can be achieved through explainability—ensuring that the decisions AI makes are understandable to humans. Whether it’s through open-source initiatives or rigorous testing, the goal is to lift the veil on how AI operates, particularly in high-stakes fields like cybersecurity. By making AI less of a mystery, we can build stronger trust with users and ensure that AI serves as a reliable tool in safeguarding our digital world.

In a world where AI is rapidly changing the tech landscape, how can individuals and organizations stay informed about the latest developments in AI and cybersecurity? What resources or communities would you recommend?

Navigating the fast-paced world of AI and cybersecurity requires a commitment to continuous learning. In The AI Journey, I emphasize the importance of staying engaged with both theoretical knowledge and practical applications. I recommend participating in active online communities where discussions about AI and cybersecurity are ongoing. Additionally, attending industry conferences, following thought leaders, and experimenting with AI tools in real-world scenarios are great ways to stay ahead of the curve. The key is to immerse yourself in both the study and practice of AI, ensuring that you not only stay informed but also become adept at applying these insights to real challenges.

For those interested in diving deeper, The AI Journey is available for purchase on Amazon, and you can also find a digital copy on my website.

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