CompTIA SecAI+

CompTIA SecAI+ (CY0-001) validates expertise in securing AI systems and integrating AI into cybersecurity operations. Launched February 17, 2026, it certifies professionals who can secure AI systems using technical controls, leverage AI to enhance corporate security posture while automating security tasks, and understand how governance, risk, and compliance impacts AI technologies on a global scale. The exam targets cybersecurity professionals with 3-4 years of IT experience including 2+ years hands-on cybersecurity, ideally holding Security+, CySA+, PenTest+, or equivalent. It covers four domains: Basic AI Concepts Related to Cybersecurity (17%), Securing AI Systems (40%), AI-Assisted Security (24%), and AI Governance, Risk, and Compliance (19%). Topics span machine learning and deep learning fundamentals, AI threat modeling using OWASP LLM/ML Top 10 and MITRE ATLAS, implementing security controls for AI systems, data protection techniques, prompt monitoring, AI-enhanced attack vectors like deepfakes and automated phishing, and compliance with the EU AI Act, NIST AI RMF, and ISO AI standards.

The CompTIA SecAI+ exam (CY0-001) contains a maximum of 60 questions combining multiple-choice and performance-based questions (PBQs). The time limit is 60 minutes. Scoring uses CompTIA's scaled scoring method on a range of 100-900, with a passing score of 600. Performance-based questions assess applied skills through scenario-based exercises requiring candidates to demonstrate operational decision-making. The exam emphasizes applied understanding rather than memorizing definitions — candidates should focus on how AI systems are developed, deployed, and operated in enterprise settings, AI-specific threat scenarios and governance requirements, and decision-making around AI risk, controls, and operational tradeoffs.

Common pitfalls for SecAI+ candidates include: (1) Underestimating Domain 2 (Securing AI Systems, 40%) — this is by far the largest domain and covers AI threat modeling, security controls, access controls, data security, monitoring, and attack evidence. Candidates who don't allocate proportional study time here often fail. (2) Confusing data privacy with model security — data encryption and anonymization protect data, while model guardrails and prompt firewalls protect the AI system itself. (3) Not understanding AI-specific attack vectors like prompt injection, data poisoning, model inversion, and jailbreaking — these differ fundamentally from traditional cybersecurity attacks. (4) Overlooking governance frameworks — the EU AI Act's risk-based classification, NIST AI RMF, and OECD AI Principles appear frequently and require understanding of practical implications, not just names. (5) Neglecting performance-based questions — PBQs test hands-on scenario application and cannot be passed through memorization alone. (6) Confusing AI techniques (e.g., supervised vs. unsupervised learning, GANs vs. transformers) — understanding when each applies to cybersecurity use cases is critical.

The CompTIA SecAI+ exam is delivered through Pearson VUE testing centers and online proctored testing. The exam code is CY0-001. CompTIA certifications are valid for three years from the date of passing. Renewal requires earning Continuing Education (CE) credits through the CompTIA CE program — candidates can attend training, earn higher certifications, or participate in industry activities to accumulate credits. CompTIA's standard retake policy applies: candidates who fail can retake after a 14-day waiting period with no limit on attempts. CertMaster Perform training represents approximately 20-25 hours of learning depending on background. All CompTIA learning products provide 12 months of access from redemption date through CompTIA Central.