The way customers find and interact with your business online is changing faster than ever. Two recent reports highlight what’s at stake:

• • The BBC described Google’s new “AI Mode,” where search results show AI-generated answers instead of sending traffic to websites. They asked the question, “Is Google about to destroy the web?”
  • Fortune revealed that Google itself has admitted the open web is in rapid decline, with publishers seeing less traffic and more of their content repurposed by AI.

Together, these changes signal a major shift for businesses of all sizes.

1. Less Website Traffic, More AI Summaries
For years, search engine optimization (SEO) and online content were reliable ways to attract new customers. But if Google delivers the answer directly through AI, many users may never click through to your website. That means less visibility, fewer leads, and greater difficulty standing out.

2. Your Content May Be Used Without Visitors
If you publish valuable blogs, guides, or resources, AI systems may summarize that work without driving traffic back to you. Businesses must now think differently about how they own their data, differentiate their expertise, and protect their intellectual property.

3. Rising Cybersecurity & Compliance Risks
As AI reshapes the web, cybercriminals are also adapting. Fake websites, impersonation, and content theft are becoming easier at scale, and many business owners don’t realize the full scope of AI-related security risks they’re facing. At the same time, regulations (like FTC Safeguards and HIPAA) are evolving to address these risks. Businesses that ignore compliance could face steep penalties.

4. Opportunity Exists in Leveraging AI the Right Way
While this may sound like bad news, it’s also an opportunity. Companies that understand what AI can actually do for their business and adopt it strategically can:

• Improve customer experience with faster, smarter service.
• Automate repetitive processes and free staff for high-value work.
• Gain real-time insights from their data to stay competitive.

The winners will be those who balance innovation with security using AI to grow revenue while protecting their customers’ trust.

1. Audit your digital presence: Understand how much you rely on web traffic and SEO.
2. Reinforce cybersecurity and compliance: Protect your data and ensure you meet regulatory requirements.
3. Adopt AI and automation strategically: Don’t wait for disruption, build AI into your operations to stay ahead.
4. Work with a trusted advisor: Partner with technology experts who can help you leverage AI securely and effectively.