Unveiling the multifaceted concept of cognitive security: Trends, perspectives, and future challenges

As a transversal concept tied to human evolution, security has increased its relevance at the same pace as development and digitisation. With the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and the sophistication of advanced persistent threats, the emerging paradigm of cognitive security (i.e., defined by some authors as the use of self-aware and adaptable AI with learning capabilities to detect and mitigate security threats) gains momentum. Nevertheless, cognitive security is a complex concept that requires a more granular description. In this article, we redefine cognitive security by first analysing the state of the art to derive the current state of practice and the definitions of cognitive security. Next, we expand the concept of cognitive security by analysing its multiple pillars, including learning theories, AI technologies, human–computer interactions, and the ethical and legal aspects impacting its development and implementation. The latter is crucial towards understanding cognitive security, providing insight into its potential and prerequisites towards its realisation while emphasising its multidisciplinary nature. In addition to such a description, we analyse the current challenges in three closely interconnected fields, namely cybersecurity, digital forensics, and digital investigations, to provide a taxonomy that can be used to assess the current challenges and limitations of cognitive security and understand its potential better. Finally, we propose future research directions, aiming to develop cognitive systems capable of continuous learning, adaptation, and ethical compliance in dynamic cybersecurity environments. Our findings highlight the role of cognitive computing systems in enhancing cybersecurity, discussing the integration of human cognition and AI for proactive and resilient security solutions.