In a recent Kaspersky survey of information security professionals at midsize and large companies around the world, 46% of respondents (AN1) said that in the past 12 months, the majority of cyberattacks experienced by their organization It has become clear that they believe they used AI technology in some way. In this article, Kaspersky Lab explains how AI is used by cybercriminals, the consequences that businesses exposed to such attacks may experience, and how businesses can protect their infrastructure from AI.
How cybercriminals are using AI
AI allows cybercriminals to attack targets faster and more accurately. One of the most important changes is that AI has revolutionized automated phishing and social engineering campaigns. Using AI tools, hackers can thoroughly analyze employee data, learn behavioral patterns in employee position and communication within a company, uncover social media activity, and create highly personalized You can now create reliable social engineering tactics.
Alarmingly, AI is also being used by cybercriminals to generate deepfake audio and video content to impersonate the voices and likenesses of CEOs and other executives to commit fraud. Additionally, AI can also help attackers bypass traditional security mechanisms. Machine learning algorithms allow attackers to test all possible attack variants in real time, giving them a more effective way to evade detection by cybersecurity software and firewalls.
The scale of the threat and the cost to businesses
The emergence of AI-powered attacks means businesses of all types and sizes are at increased risk. Previously, some companies may not have been recognized as potential targets, but now AI allows attackers to further expand their operations. Cybercriminals can attack thousands of companies simultaneously with minimal effort. Attacks can now be deployed more effectively while hiding traces that trace back to the origins of malicious activity.
The damage associated with AI attacks can be severe for businesses, both financially and reputationally. In addition, fines, legal costs, and long-term damage to customer trust can be incurred. This is a particularly sensitive area for sectors such as financial, medical, and legal services that rely heavily on consumer trust and confidentiality.
How businesses can protect themselves
To combat the growing threat of AI-powered cybercrime, businesses must focus on building a comprehensive cybersecurity framework rather than relying solely on AI-powered solutions. While AI tools play an important role in real-time monitoring and threat detection, they are not enough. Effective cybersecurity requires a multi-layered approach, including advanced security tools, regular employee training, and proactive incident response planning. Only through a combination of technology, education, and preparedness can businesses build the resiliency needed to meet the challenges posed by increasingly sophisticated AI threats.
