The AI is moving to the dark side of the force.
Researchers predict that as technology evolves, cybercriminals will increasingly use artificial intelligence for their own purposes. At the same time, we are not talking about simple tactics like fraudulent campaigns, but about large automated and multi-stage cyber attacks.
According to the organization Darktrace, from May to July of this year, the number of phishing emails distributed using advanced social engineering methods increased by 59%. Emails encourage the victim to perform a series of actions before delivering malware or stealing confidential information. And this is just the beginning.
In the course of its research, Darktrace relied on data from its own customer base.
Attacks where social engineering is based on models such as ChatGPT are 135% more likely to be noticed. They skillfully "ingratiate themselves" by communicating with victims on any topic and correctly answering questions.
Another example of attacks in which AI may have been involved is "quishing" - phishing using QR codes. This trick automates the process and makes it easier for scammers.
The key word here is "possible", since the researchers can't say anything yet. However, it is known that it is very easy to use neural networks for such purposes.
The number of emails in which hackers fake the identities of senior company executives has decreased by 11%. Instead, attackers began to impersonate IT specialists 19% more often, as the old "traps" were exposed by employees of firms long ago. Smart technologies can also be useful in this area.
"Attackers usually adjust and adapt their techniques when they become ineffective, but generative AI - especially deepfakes-can improve the process," says Darktrace technology director Jack Stockdale. We are talking about developing chatbots and their communication skills, as well as realistic imitation of the human voice.
Nevertheless, some experts argue that progress works both ways: AI algorithms will help create more effective protection mechanisms and also automate the fight against threats.
Researchers predict that as technology evolves, cybercriminals will increasingly use artificial intelligence for their own purposes. At the same time, we are not talking about simple tactics like fraudulent campaigns, but about large automated and multi-stage cyber attacks.
According to the organization Darktrace, from May to July of this year, the number of phishing emails distributed using advanced social engineering methods increased by 59%. Emails encourage the victim to perform a series of actions before delivering malware or stealing confidential information. And this is just the beginning.
In the course of its research, Darktrace relied on data from its own customer base.
Attacks where social engineering is based on models such as ChatGPT are 135% more likely to be noticed. They skillfully "ingratiate themselves" by communicating with victims on any topic and correctly answering questions.
Another example of attacks in which AI may have been involved is "quishing" - phishing using QR codes. This trick automates the process and makes it easier for scammers.
The key word here is "possible", since the researchers can't say anything yet. However, it is known that it is very easy to use neural networks for such purposes.
The number of emails in which hackers fake the identities of senior company executives has decreased by 11%. Instead, attackers began to impersonate IT specialists 19% more often, as the old "traps" were exposed by employees of firms long ago. Smart technologies can also be useful in this area.
"Attackers usually adjust and adapt their techniques when they become ineffective, but generative AI - especially deepfakes-can improve the process," says Darktrace technology director Jack Stockdale. We are talking about developing chatbots and their communication skills, as well as realistic imitation of the human voice.
Nevertheless, some experts argue that progress works both ways: AI algorithms will help create more effective protection mechanisms and also automate the fight against threats.
