Securing AI: Understanding the New OWASP Top 10 for LLM Applications (2025)

As artificial intelligence becomes deeply embedded across industries—from customer service chatbots to critical business operations—the associated cybersecurity risks are growing at an unprecedented rate. OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project) recently released the 2025 Top 10 for Large Language Model (LLM) Applications, highlighting critical security concerns specifically relevant to AI technologies.

At Red Garrison, we believe staying ahead of these risks is essential. Let's dive into some of the major vulnerabilities highlighted by OWASP and explore how to mitigate these threats:

1. Prompt Injection (LLM01:2025)

Prompt injection occurs when malicious or accidental inputs cause the AI to behave in unintended ways, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or information disclosures. This can include direct manipulation by users or indirect injections through external data sources. Mitigation involves constraining model behaviors, strict input/output filtering, and enforcing robust privilege controls.

2. Sensitive Information Disclosure (LLM02:2025)

AI applications frequently handle sensitive data. Vulnerabilities in these systems can inadvertently reveal confidential information. Effective mitigation includes rigorous input validation, output filtering, and ongoing monitoring for unauthorized data leaks.

3. Supply Chain Risks (LLM03:2025)

The complex supply chains of AI models—from data sourcing to model deployment—introduce numerous vulnerabilities. Protecting these systems requires thorough vetting of third-party components, regular security audits, and controlled access management.

4. Data and Model Poisoning (LLM04:2025)

Attackers may attempt to poison data or models, corrupting AI outputs and decisions. Regular validation of training data, secure model update practices, and monitoring for anomalous behaviors are essential defenses.

5. Excessive Agency (LLM06:2025)

Granting excessive autonomy to AI agents can lead to unintended consequences. Ensuring AI operates within clearly defined limits, implementing human oversight for critical tasks, and maintaining robust privilege management are key safeguards.

6. System Prompt Leakage (LLM07:2025)

System prompts, which provide essential guidance to AI systems, can be inadvertently exposed. Mitigation strategies involve clearly separating user inputs from system instructions and routinely testing systems for potential leaks.

7. Vector and Embedding Weaknesses (LLM08:2025)

AI systems employing vector embeddings and retrieval-augmented generation methods may contain exploitable weaknesses. Regular testing and validation, along with careful design of retrieval systems, reduce risks.

8. Misinformation (LLM09:2025)

AI systems can propagate misinformation, whether maliciously or unintentionally. Ensuring the accuracy and source validation of generated content, alongside human-in-the-loop validation for high-stakes decisions, helps mitigate these threats.

9. Unbounded Consumption (LLM10:2025)

Large-scale AI deployments face risks from unbounded resource consumption leading to denial-of-service scenarios. Effective resource management policies, monitoring, and clearly defined operational constraints are critical.

What Does This Mean for Arkansas Schools and Businesses?

Arkansas schools and businesses must recognize these risks as integral parts of their operational security strategies. Educational institutions deploying AI-driven tools for learning and administration should prioritize robust cybersecurity training and regular security assessments to protect sensitive student information. Businesses in Arkansas leveraging AI technologies should adopt comprehensive cybersecurity policies, conduct regular penetration tests, and engage in ongoing monitoring to ensure compliance with best practices and safeguard critical operations.

At Red Garrison, we specialize in proactively identifying and mitigating risks like these through comprehensive security assessments, targeted penetration tests, and ongoing cybersecurity education and training. Stay secure by keeping these vulnerabilities at the forefront of your AI strategies.

For more detailed information or to schedule a consultation, reach out to our experts at Red Garrison—we're here to secure your AI future.