How Hackers Use AI and How to Protect Yourself

For seven decades, artificial intelligence has been developing. AI research began in the 1950s, and ChatGPT helped bring it widely to the public’s attention. And it was quite the entrance! It was the topic of conversation.

Regretfully, hackers were simultaneously honing their prompt engineering techniques in preparation to cause havoc on the entire online community. 

They refined their scams, created new ones, and created malicious code and new content using large language models (LLMs). 

We will take a quick look at how cyber criminals are increasingly using AI to cause havoc on a global scale. Power comes from awareness. 

We can all be more vigilant, spot suspicious emails and malicious activity more easily, and adopt better cybersecurity procedures for our personal and professional lives by being aware of the techniques listed below. 

How Cybercriminals Can Attack, Hack, and Compromise Using AI 

AI is helping hackers improve their data breaching abilities in the rapidly changing realm of cybercrime. Hackers can compromise your devices using AI in the following ways: 

Customized Phishing: 

Cybercriminals can fool you into thinking what they are sending is authentic by using impersonation and personalized messages. 

The simplest yet most popular method of compromise for both individuals and big businesses is phishing. 

Deepfake Information: 

Videos sent by hackers can be deepfake. They may even appear to be requests for information and/or funds from your supervisors. Spreading hate and bad press is another common use for deepfake videos.

Cracking CAPTCHA: 

Like humans, AI algorithms are capable of solving CAPTCHAs. By breaking into any account that is only CAPTCHA protected, they can steal confidential data. 

Brute Force Assaults: 

AI is capable of breaking passwords and brute forcing its way into your system or network. AI makes it simpler for hackers to break passwords, particularly if they have been examining your online activity. 

Listening to Keystrokes: 

AI is actually capable of listening to your keystrokes, analyzing patterns, and making 95% accurate password guesses. 

Sound Fingerprinting: 

AI has made it possible for cybercriminals to mimic your voice and use it to steal money from your friends and family. 

How to Protect Against AI-Powered Attacks? 

Activate the multi factor authentication system

Multi-Factor Authentication is an extra security measure that is essential in the AI era. 

To access an account, particularly on a financial services platform, you must present two (and occasionally even more) forms of identification. 

To improve security, you can use a biometric scan, one time passwords (OTP), and an authenticator app. 

Make Use of Extremely Secure Passwords

Before ChatGPT, you needed strong passwords, but now you need really strong ones. Whether you are an individual or an organization is irrelevant. 

Update everything

You must update all of the devices you use or connect to your network to the most recent version, including the operating system and installed apps. Turn on auto-updates for everything to make this process easier. 

It will ensure that security patches are always up to date, and you do not have to remember anything. By following this easy tip, you can close the gaps and weaknesses that hackers could use to gain access to your devices.

Protect Your Network

There was an antivirus program on every computer ten years ago. These days, a virtual private network (VPN) is required for every device. A VPN is essential for private browsing because it encrypts your data and hides your IP address while you browse the internet. 

Conclusion

Remaining informed and staying one step ahead of potential threats are crucial for staying safe in this digital age. It is not only necessary, but also your duty to protect your financial and personal data. Remain alert, stay informed, and stay safe.