Like a Hammer, It Can Build, It Can Break: Large Language Model Uses, Perceptions, and Adoption in Cybersecurity Operations on Reddit
arXiv:2604.09998v2 Announce Type: replace-cross Abstract: Large language models (LLMs) have recently emerged as promising tools for augmenting Security Operations Center (SOC) workflows, with vendors increasingly marketing autonomous AI solutions for SOCs. However, there remains a limited empirical understanding of how such tools are used, perceived, and adopted by real-world security practitioners. To address this gap, we conduct a mixed-methods analysis of discussions in cybersecurity-focused forums to learn how a diverse group of practitioners use and perceive modern LLM tools for security
The proliferation of increasingly capable large language models (LLMs) coincides with their aggressive marketing by vendors for cybersecurity operations, creating an immediate need to understand real-world adoption and impact.
This study provides empirical insight into the practical integration of LLMs in critical cybersecurity functions, influencing investment, regulatory frameworks, and operational strategies for defense against evolving threats.
The understanding of how LLMs are actually used within Security Operations Centers (SOCs) shifts from vendor claims to practitioner feedback, highlighting areas of success and significant challenges.
- · AI cybersecurity solution providers
- · Security operations centers (SOCs)
- · Cloud infrastructure providers
- · Cybersecurity consultancies reliant on manual labor
- · Security teams slow to adopt AI tools
- · Threat actors using unsophisticated methods
Increased efficiency in threat detection and response within SOCs leveraging LLMs.
A re-skilling imperative for cybersecurity professionals to effectively integrate and manage AI tools.
The potential for AI-powered cyber defense to create new attack surfaces or vulnerabilities if not properly secured and monitored.
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Read at arXiv cs.AI