According to a report by Meta’s security team, ChatGPT and other Artificial Intelligence systems have become the newest means for cybercriminals to spread spam, malware, and phishing scams. The report highlights that bad actors have shifted to AI since it is the latest wave of technology that is catching people’s imagination and excitement.
In March, eleven malware families posing as ChatGPT and related AI capabilities were discovered by the team. Some of these were discovered in various browser extensions. The team warns the public to be cautious since bad actors are aware of the fast-expanding generative AI arena. The team at Meta is currently working on its advancements in generative AI to advance its augmented and virtual reality technology. Despite making significant investments in the Metaverse, Meta CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, claims that AI is Meta’s single-largest investment. OpenAI, responsible for ChatGPT, has yet to comment on the report.
The use of AI by cybercriminals is not a new phenomenon. AI-powered viruses, malware, and phishing scams have been observed in recent years. These attacks pose a significant threat to businesses and individuals globally.
One of the reasons why ChatGPT has become a popular vector for cybercriminals is that it is a language model AI that can generate human-like text, making it easier to manipulate individuals into clicking on malicious links or providing sensitive information.
As AI technology advances, so too will cybercriminals’ ability to use it in their attacks. The greatest defense against these attacks is to remain vigilant and cautious when opening emails or clicking on links, even when they appear to be from a trusted source. Additionally, it is essential to keep your software and devices up to date with the latest security patches and updates.
In conclusion, the use of AI by cybercriminals is a growing concern, and it is crucial for individuals and businesses to be aware of this threat. The report by Meta’s security team highlights the importance of being cautious when using generative AI and urges the public to take steps to protect themselves against these attacks. As technology continues to advance, it is essential to remain vigilant and adapt to the latest security measures to protect ourselves from these evolving threats.
