Winning Against AI-Based Attacks Requires a Combined Defensive Approach

Gen Z + tech pros, listen up: AI-powered cyberattacks are evolving faster than your endpoint detection and response (EDR) can keep up. Hackers are now using steganography to hide malicious code in innocent-looking images, abusing antivirus tools to bypass security, and automating attacks at scale. This isn't sci-fi — it's happening now, and traditional defenses are getting wrecked.

The solution? A combined defensive approach that pairs EDR with network detection and response (NDR). Think of it as having eyes on both the endpoint AND the network traffic — because AI attacks are slipping through the cracks when you only monitor one layer. This shift isn't optional; it's mandatory for anyone serious about security in 2026.

Key tactics attackers are using: steganography to embed malware in images (sneaky AF), abusing legitimate AV tools to disable security (ironic, right?), and automation to launch attacks faster than human teams can respond. If you're still relying solely on EDR, you're basically leaving the back door wide open.

Bottom line: The era of single-layer security is over. To win against AI-based attacks, you need a combined approach that monitors both endpoints AND network traffic. Don't get caught sleeping while the bots take over — upgrade your defenses now.