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NIST’s Apostol Vassilev Highlights the Importance of Dynamic Response Over Static Testing
The expansion of artificial intelligence models has introduced complexities that make defending such technologies increasingly challenging. Apostol Vassilev, a research team supervisor at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), addressed this issue by emphasizing the limitations of traditional static testing in identifying potential vulnerabilities.
Vassilev stated that cyber response teams are turning to continuous red teaming as a proactive measure. Static assessments, he argued, cannot capture all possible threats; thus, a dynamic approach is necessary. “You have to apply red teaming proactively to alter your model’s state,” he insisted. The goal is to complicate matters for attackers seeking to find weaknesses through current adversarial prompts.
In a recent video interview with Information Security Media Group during the Black Hat USA 2025 event, Vassilev elaborated on various aspects surrounding AI security. Among the topics discussed were the risks posed by information overload as an attack vector, challenges in validating complex natural language inputs, and the importance of integrating conventional cybersecurity practices with measures tailored specifically for AI frameworks.
Focusing on adversarial machine learning and the development of robust AI, Vassilev collaborates with academic institutions, industry leaders, and government entities to establish standards for AI security. His contributions have not gone unnoticed; previously honored with a bronze medal from the U.S. Commerce Department, he has been featured in numerous prominent publications including the Wall Street Journal and Forbes.
As organizations continue to adopt advanced AI technologies, the necessity of a dynamic security posture becomes increasingly evident. By embracing continuous red teaming strategies, businesses can enhance their defenses against ever-evolving threats, ensuring that they stay one step ahead in a landscape characterized by rapid technological advancements.
