Live at #RSAC 26 with James Stanger

Why It Matters

Prioritizing AI protection, efficiency, and governance enables firms to safely harness AI’s power, reducing breach risk and unlocking competitive advantage.

Key Takeaways

• AI security requires protecting the AI systems themselves
• AI can streamline pentesting and threat analytics for efficiency
• Governance is the critical third pillar for rapid AI adoption
• CompTIA's SEC AI Plus teaches the AI security trifecta framework
• 2026 will see organizations clean processes before deploying AI

Summary

James Stanger of CompTIA addressed the RSAC 2026 audience, outlining a three‑part framework he calls the cyber security AI trifecta. He emphasized that the first priority is safeguarding the AI models and data pipelines themselves, a step often overlooked as organizations rush to adopt generative tools. The second pillar focuses on operational efficiency, where AI augments traditional activities such as penetration testing and threat‑intelligence analytics, delivering faster, more accurate results. The final component is governance—establishing policies, audit trails, and compliance checks that can keep pace with rapid AI deployment. Stanger highlighted CompTIA’s SEC AI Plus program as a practical guide for implementing this trifecta, and announced a follow‑up session with Patrick Johnson on avoiding back‑tracking during AI integration. Notable remarks included, “2026 is the year good organizations are going to clean up and figure out their processes,” and “protecting AI itself is the first flag to raise.” He underscored that without solid process hygiene, AI initiatives risk amplifying existing security gaps. The implications are clear: firms must first harden their AI assets, embed automation into core security workflows, and codify governance before scaling AI. Those that master this sequence will gain a competitive edge, while laggards risk regulatory penalties and heightened breach exposure.

Original Description

AI is reshaping cybersecurity—fast.

At #RSAC 2026, we caught up with @James Stanger to break down what that means for security professionals—and how SecAI+ is helping teams stay ahead.

From emerging threats to real-world applications, AI skills are quickly becoming essential in cybersecurity.

🎓 Learn more about SecAI+ and upcoming training:

https://www.infosecinstitute.com/webinar/meet-secai/?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=organic+social&utm_campaign=secaiwebinar&utm_content=personal

💸 Use code "SAVE250" to save $250!

📍 At RSAC? Stop by booth 3310 in Moscone South to connect with the Infosec team. #RSAC2026 #Cybersecurity #AI #Infosec #SecurityTraining #CompTIA #SecAI

About Infosec

Infosec’s mission is to put people at the center of cybersecurity. We help IT and security professionals advance their careers with skills development and certifications while empowering all employees with security awareness and phishing training to stay cyber-safe at work and home. More than 70% of the Fortune 500 have relied on Infosec to develop their security talent, and more than 5 million learners worldwide are more cyber-resilient from Infosec IQ’s security awareness training. Learn more at infosecinstitute.com.