Cyber risk intelligence provider Kynd has launched a new AI detection capability that allows cyber insurers to identify AI technologies operating across an organisation's external digital footprint before assessing the risk.

The tool is designed to give underwriters an independently observed view of AI use, supplementing information provided through proposal forms and underwriting discussions. Kynd said it can identify AI applications and features visible from a single domain, including AI assistants and chatbots, generative AI tools and AI embedded within marketing and commerce technology.

The launch comes as businesses adopt AI rapidly, potentially creating exposures that are not fully captured through traditional underwriting processes. AI use can also develop faster than organisations' ability to monitor and govern it, creating the potential for so-called 'shadow AI' – technology being used without formal approval or oversight.

Melanie Hayes, co-founder of Kynd, said: “Proposal forms and underwriting conversations remain essential, but AI use is changing rapidly and businesses themselves may not always have complete oversight of the technologies being used across their organisation.

“Giving underwriters independently observed information means the conversation can start with greater visibility of what is detectable on the risk, helping underwriters ask more informed questions and build a clearer picture of the exposure.”

Kynd said the capability could also provide insurers with a view of AI exposure across their portfolios, allowing them to identify common technologies and dependencies appearing across multiple insured organisations and assess potential concentrations of risk.

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