Generative AI (genAI) tools like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot have the potential to be used by hackers to create undetectable malicious code, posing a significant threat. There are concerns that rogue states such as Russia, Iran, and North Korea could exploit genAI to launch devastating cyberattacks against the US and its allies.
However, despite the use of genAI by nation states to target the US and its allies, the attacks have not yet been highly dangerous or effective. Microsoft and OpenAI are actively addressing this threat, openly discussing the attacks and sharing strategies to combat them.
While AI-aided hacking is still in its early stages, there is a possibility that genAI could enhance existing hacking methods, particularly social engineering tactics like spear phishing and identity theft.
Microsoft and OpenAI have disclosed a series of genAI-generated attacks and outlined their efforts to counter them. OpenAI reported that it thwarted hacking attempts from five state-affiliated actors, including groups connected to China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia.
These groups utilized OpenAI services for various purposes, such as researching companies, debugging code, and generating content for phishing campaigns. However, the attacks have not yet demonstrated significant advancements in hacking techniques or evasion of detection.
Despite the potential risks, Microsoft and OpenAI are actively working to mitigate the threat posed by genAI-aided hacking.
2024-02-27 17:00:03
Link from www.computerworld.com