The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has evolved today’s technology in ways that are unprecedented. While AI has proved advantageous, it has also become prevalent for cyber attacks. 

As an example, let’s talk about Facebook. The platform was intended to be created for good. It was built in an effort to expand our social circles, and bring the world closer together. While these positives remain true, the platform took on a life of its own, creating negative impacts we never saw coming. Suicide, depression, and anxiety rates have skyrocketed due to cyberbullying. Stalking, identify theft, and other criminal activity is much more accessible with the use of social media. This begs the question — while AI has positively shaped technology as we know it today, when is it not used for good? 

How can cyber criminals leverage AI in a negative way? 

1. Chatbots. A chatbot isn’t just a pop up on a website. It’s what you use in your everyday life, from Facebook messenger, Snapchat conversations, Instagram direct messages, and more. These chatbots are programmed to start a conversation with the user, with the intention of them revealing their personal information. AI has become so advanced that it’s hard to spot an attack when it’s happening. 

2. Malware. Cyber criminals write malicious code, which can act as a virus on your computer in order to gain your information. AI has made it even easier to do so, as it helps them control webcams, steal files, and more. This is why it’s important to have strong passwords to all your accounts. 

3. Phishing. At one point or another, you’ve probably received an email that didn’t quite look right. Hackers try to use discreet and subtle ways to appear credible, and have created coding and HTML that allows them to do so with little difficulty. AI improves phishing techniques because it can crawl any platform, adapt to the language, and create tons of fake emails based on its observations.  

Advanced AI technology can pose a threat to your business, so it’s important that the correct tools, resources, and processes are put in place to prevent these attacks. Understanding how these threats work can help your business be proactive in discovering and prioritizing risks. 

If your business is concerned about advanced cybersecurity threats due to AI, Thinline Technologies can help. Our cybersecurity network specialists can address active threats to your organization and prevent future hackers from threatening your business and information. We offer security risk assessments, indecent response plans, cybersecurity consulting, and more. You can also sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on cybersecurity tips and tricks. Contact us today!