Exposure To Empowerment: Strengthening MSME in the age of AI

Across the Asia-Pacific region, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are rapidly adopting Al tools to streamline operations, reach new markets, and better serve customers. But this fast-paced uptake often happens without clear safeguards, leaving businesses exposed to emerging cyber threats.

Malicious actors are now leveraging Al to scale fraud, impersonation, and reputational attacks. In a region where MSMEs drive most economies yet face significant cybersecurity gaps, these threats are growing fast.

This policy brief explores the dual nature of Al for MSMEs-a powerful engine for growth and a sophisticated vector for new cyber risks. It offers actionable recommendations to help businesses navigate this evolving landscape safely and build a more resilient digital future.

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