It's official: artificial intelligence (AI) isn't just a buzzword anymore - it's now a daily part of how many businesses operate. From streamlining admin tasks to powering customer service, AI is everywhere.
But it's also raising serious questions:
In this blog, we're digging into the good, the bad, and the "you need to know this" when it comes to generative AI - especially how it's changing the landscape for IT support and cyber security for businesses across Greater Manchester.
AI, especially tools like Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and even Outlook's new smart features, are making it easier than ever to:
That means more time for your team to focus on important work - strategic thinking, customer service, and growth.
In fact, according to Microsoft, Copilot users say they're saving as much as 10 hours per month on everyday admin.
Use case example: One of our Manchester clients is now using Copilot in Teams to capture meeting actions and assign them to team members - no more missed to-dos or scribbled notes that don't get distributed to everyone in the meeting
Here's where things get tricky. While AI is helping businesses become more efficient, it's also giving cyber criminals new tools to launch attacks that are faster, more convincing, and harder to detect.
We're seeing a sharp rise in:
This isn't theoretical - it's happening now. In 2024, one UK firm lost £200,000 after a fake "voice note" from a supplier asked for bank details to be updated. The voice was generated using AI. The email looked legit. The payment was sent.
AI isn't good or bad. It's a tool - and how you use it (or ignore it) is what really matters.
The real danger isn't the tech itself. It's assuming your current IT setup is ready for it.
Many businesses in Greater Manchester are still using outdated software, no multi-factor authentication (MFA), and weak password practices - leaving the door wide open to AI-enhanced attacks.
If your business is using - or considering using - AI tools like ChatGPT or Microsoft Copilot, here's how to make sure you're doing it safely:
AI is great at guessing weak passwords. Don't make it easy. MFA blocks over 99% of automated account breaches.
AI-written phishing emails are on the rise. Invest in email filtering tools and phishing simulations.
Teach your staff to question AI-generated content and not assume it's always accurate - or safe to act on.
Don't let staff paste sensitive data into ChatGPT or similar platforms. Have clear rules in place.
Make sure your MSP or IT support partner is monitoring for AI-related risks and helping you use these tools securely. If they're not, it might be time to switch.
AI is here to stay, and it's transforming the way businesses work. But like any tool, it's only as smart as the strategy behind it. Our advice? Use it. Enjoy it. But don't ignore the risks. And if you're not sure where to start, ask for help. At Apex, we're helping businesses across Greater Manchester use AI safely and effectively - from setting up Microsoft Copilot for productivity gains, to securing email systems against AI-generated threats and training staff on spotting and mitigating them.