Explosion of cybercrime: The formidable threats of artificial intelligence revealed! Discover the current state and alarming outlook

Cybercriminals are increasingly exploiting artificial intelligence (AI)

More and more cybercriminals are using artificial intelligence (AI) to carry out their attacks more effectively and credibly. Generative AI, popularized by the chatbot ChatGPT, is increasingly used in the world of cybercrime. Criminals use this technology to update their tools, such as phishing, ransomware, scams and president scams.

AI makes cybercriminals more efficient and credible

According to Jean-Jacques Latour, director of cybersecurity expertise at Cybermalveillance.gouv.fr, AI is becoming more common among cybercriminals, making them more effective and credible. The methods used by these criminals are not changing, but the volume of attacks and their persuasiveness are increasing significantly.

More sophisticated phishing attacks thanks to AI

Phishing emails, which promise free gifts or discounts, are becoming more sophisticated thanks to AI. Scammers tailor their language to their targets and use appropriate contexts to convince them to click on questionable links or sites. Gross syntax or spelling errors are avoided.

Generative AI Used to Create Custom Malware

Generative AI can be misused to create custom malware that exploits known vulnerabilities in computer programs. Programs such as ThreatGPT, WormGPT, and FraudGPT are growing on the Darknet and gaining popularity among malicious actors.

Hackers’ use of AI to sort and exploit data

Hackers also use AI to sort and exploit a mass of data after infiltrating a computer system. This allows them to maximize their profits by targeting the most relevant information.

AI in the presidential scam and ransomware

AI is also being used in the presidential scam, where hackers collect information on company executives to authorize fraudulent transfers. Thanks to “deepfake” audio generators, they can perfectly imitate the voices of managers to give transfer orders. Additionally, ransomware already uses AI to modify its code and evade detection by security tools.

AI-generated synthetic content used to deceive, harass or extort

British police have previously reported cases where synthetic AI-generated content has been used to deceive, harass or extort victims. Although the first cases in France have not been officially recorded, doubts remain about the use of AI by criminals.

The “zero trust” rule to counter new threats

Faced with these new threats, it is essential to apply the rule of “zero trust” in matters of cybersecurity and AI. You should not trust any a priori element. The most active hackers are generally well-organized networks from Eastern Europe, but state hackers from marginalized countries should not be overlooked.

Conclusion

In conclusion, AI-powered cybercrime represents a growing threat. Cybercriminals use this technology to improve their techniques and carry out more credible attacks. It is essential to remain vigilant and put appropriate protective measures in place to counter these threats.