Debate Over Restricting Access to Cyber-Capable AI Models Highlights Defense Concerns

Jaya Baloo, COO and CISO at Aisle, discussed the debate over restricting access to cyber-capable AI models in an interview with Help Net Security published on June 22, 2026. She argued that gating these tools may widen the gap between attackers and defenders, as security teams rely on the same AI capabilities for defense. Baloo contended that policymakers misunderstand the operational dynamics of both threat actors and defenders, noting that open-weight AI models have dual-use implications. The discussion highlighted concerns that access restrictions could disproportionately hinder defensive cybersecurity efforts rather than curbing malicious use.