Hyderabad: While Artificial Intelligence ( AI ) has become a game changer for tech innovations, it has also turned into a tool for cybercriminals to loot people with deceptive tactics. According to researchers, scammers will launch additional attacks using AI and recommend steps to protect themselves from them.
Prasad Patibandla, director ( research and operations ), Centre for Research on Cyber Intelligence and Digital Forensics ( CRCIDF), told TOI that AI-related crimes are a growing concern globally. Scammers are targeting the general public with every possible means of AI. Some of them are AI-powered hacking, AI-generated malware, genetic data breaches, misleading information and misinformation, AI-powered cyberbullying, and AI-based social engineering attacks.
Phishing messages may be personalized by AI.
By analyzing data from social media or past relationships, AI can be employed to create highly personal and convincing phishing messages or messages. For example, cybercriminals use AI to create a text that appears to be sent by the CEO of a company or one’s manager, asking to exchange sensitive data or create economic transfers”, explained Patibandla.
He explained how AI can also be used to analyze large amounts of private data from online sources to create very powerful attacks. ” Here, a thief uses AI instruments to scrape cultural media for specific information, then uses that information to create targeted attacks, such as spear-phishing. These acts are also often difficult to detect and prosecute as they exploit the challenges of AI technology”, added Patibandla, a modern forensic expert.
Artificial surveillance systems to detect anomalies
Therefore, how can we overcome this? In order to combat AI-driven threats, Patibandla claims both modern defenses and procedural safeguards are required. He suggests AI-powered security options, where AI can be used to detect strange designs, anomalies, and new forms of malware or phishing attempts. Utilizing behavioral analysis using AI can also identify suspicious activity ( such as abnormal login times, access to unusual records, etc. ) and help track and analyze user behavior within a network. and check them in real-time. ” AI’s ability to learn behaviours helps position possible problems, even ones that use AI or other advanced methods”, said Patibandla.
He likewise advised putting in place AI-driven email filters that use system learning to prevent suspicious attachments or links and filtering out phishing emails. Even the most powerful attempts are detected by these systems. ” Further, enforce multi-factor authentication ( MFA ) for all accounts, especially for those with sensitive data or administrative rights, and conduct security audits and penetration testing regularly”, he said while emphasising on educating and spreading awareness, since human error is often the weak link.
Education, knowledge
” AI-powered instruction modules can create attacks and train the people to react appropriately.” Governments and organizations should also raise awareness of the dangers of AI-based cybercrimes, assisting victims in recognising potential threats in everyday situations, such as fabricated videos or misleading information, Patibandla said.