AI security and governance
The right basis for safe and controlled use of AI
Copilot is coming – along with many questions: What is AI really allowed to see? Who has access to what? And how do we prevent the accidental sharing of sensitive information or the generation of incorrect content? It is clear that good data quality and a secure platform are prerequisites rather than optional extras. AI reveals many things previously hidden. You risk more than just an unfortunate click if you are unprepared. This can quickly lead to information leakage and betrayal of secrets.
Copilot & co. will play their strengths to the fullest when you provide a tidy database, clear rules and an astute protection concept – without any nasty surprises.
Why data quality and access management are crucial
Survey show: Many are wary of what AI can do – and what it is perhaps too good at. An overview of the most common risks:
How Microsoft 365 supports your security
Microsoft provides various tools to minimize risks.
Purview
Recognizes potentially dangerous content, classifies data, implements protection mechanisms – all using AI in the process.
DSPM (Data Security Posture Management for All)
Provides protection against insecure, publicly accessible AI services.
Advanced SharePoint Management
Detects critical sites and excludes them from Copilot access – even with a single license.
Authorisation management
Works when implemented correctly – this remains a basic requirement for a secure use of AI.
Copilot dashboard
See which, and how, content is used.
Avoid security gaps from arising in the first place
The aim is to ensure AI is useful and safe to use rather than to block everything. This requires a sound database and clear governance. The best time to tidy up is now. The need for clarity, control and expertise is increasing with Copilot & co. Technology alone is not enough: change and training are just as essential.
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Oversharing through incorrect authorizations:
Copilot works in the user context and adheres to access rights. The problem: If these are wrong, the best technology won't help. Restricted content is found in search responses as soon as someone has access who should never have had it in the first place. An old acquaintance from the world of enterprise search. -
Group chats with agents – a special case:
A person with more rights than others creates a summary in the chat - suddenly everyone sees information not intended for them. Microsoft integrated the first, yet undependable, warnings for this. -
Fuzzy grounding – poor response quality:
Basically, the smaller and more precise the grounding, the better the results. Agents are easy to limit – copilot is not. It scans the entire tenant and pulls everything in: Drafts, old versions, outdated HR regulations. This leads to incorrect statements – without malicious intent yet with real consequences. -
Shadow AI::
Over 70% of employees use AI – often untested, unsecured and outside of the official tools. This is a risk. -
Potential for misuse:
Whether it's espionage, unethical use or simply carelessness: AI can do a great deal. And those who can do a lot can do a lot wrong.
Keep control of your data in M365 – even when using AI
You decide which data is shared with AI services. Through targeted control and clear limitations.
Our approach: holistic and pragmatic
Bei IPI denken wir KI nicht nur technisch, sondern ganzheitlich: aus der Perspektive von Organisation, Governance und Nutzerverhalten. Wir starten mit dem, was da ist. Keine Maximalausstattung, keine Lizenzschlacht. Unser Ziel: das richtige Maß an Sicherheit und Verantwortung. Ein Beispiel: Sie möchten einen Agenten für Konstruktionsdokumente einführen. Dann braucht es keine flächendeckende Copilot-Lizenzierung und keinen umfassenden Tenant-Relaunch. Wir helfen gezielt dabei, relevante Dokumente zu identifizieren, Zugriffsrechte zu prüfen und Agenten sicher einzubinden.
At IPI, we think of AI in more than just technical terms: we consider the perspectives of organization, governance and user behaviour. And we start with what we have. No top gear, no license battle. Our goal: the right level of security and responsibility. An example: You want to introduce an agent for design documents. For this you won’t need comprehensive co-pilot licensing or a comprehensive tenant relaunch. We help you identify relevant documents, check your access rights and integrate agents in a secure way.
We will collaborate with law firms specializing in data protection if necessary – because security is a legal issue as well as an IT issue.
What is AI allowed and what not?
What content is available, sensitive or risky?
Checklists & best practices for a secure use of Copilot
Access, protection and exclusions in line with your objectives.
So that your employees can handle AI safely and responsibly.
Clear roles, ongoing testing, continuous improvement.
Best safety. Better quality
For AI to help you rather than harm you will need clean structures, transparent processes and the right measures. Make your organization fit for the safe use of AI with our step by step, tailor-made and well devised approach.
Let us design your roadmap – structured and practical.
