A new security standard from the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) aims to strengthen how artificial intelligence systems are designed, deployed, and monitored to reduce risks and protect users. The standard responds to growing concerns about AI vulnerabilities — such as data breaches, model manipulation, and unsafe autonomous behaviour — by providing a structured set of security requirements for AI throughout its lifecycle.
The ETSI standard encourages organisations to build AI systems with security‑by‑design principles, meaning that potential threats should be considered from the earliest stages of development, not just after a system is deployed. It also emphasises ongoing monitoring, incident response planning, and clear documentation to ensure that AI models remain safe and reliable even as they evolve or adapt over time.
Another key aspect of the standard is risk assessment. Developers are urged to identify and prioritise potential risks associated with their AI applications, evaluate possible impacts on users and systems, and apply appropriate mitigation measures. This includes securing data inputs, protecting model integrity, and ensuring that outputs cannot be tampered with or misused to cause harm.
Overall, the ETSI security framework reflects a broader trend toward responsible and trustworthy AI. By setting common expectations for security practices, the standard aims to help organisations from industry, government, and critical infrastructure sectors build AI applications that are resilient against threats and aligned with ethical and safety priorities.
