Can you imagine that a tool that we use daily, designed to help us, could be used to create cyberattacks? That’s the current reality with generative AI models like ChatGPT. This technology, so accessible and efficient, is being explored not only by those who use it for productive purposes, but also by those who seek to violate the security of unsuspecting companies and users.
Here you will discover everything you need to know about how ChatGPT and other similar AIs are transforming the cybersecurity landscape and how real the risk is of them being used to create cyberattacks.
The double face: helper or tool for evil?
Since its launch, ChatGPT has been acclaimed for its ability to automate tasks, answer queries, and generate texts of all kinds. However, it has also caught the attention of cybercriminals who see it as an opportunity to improve their attack strategies.
Through dark web forums, some hackers have already discussed how they can use AI to create more convincing phishing emails or generate simple attack scripts. AI’s ability to learn and adjust to different contexts means that, in the wrong hands, it can generate worrying consequences.
AI and the world of phishing
One of the most common uses of ChatGPT in cybercrime is in the creation of phishing emails. AI can compose highly persuasive messages in a matter of seconds, making it easy for threat actors without strong writing skills to generate convincing messages to deceive their victims.
This is especially dangerous when details such as language, business terminology or the victim’s personal data are personalized, aspects that increase the likelihood that someone will fall for the fraud. Although this type of use is currently limited to users without advanced skills, it is a clear example of how AI can increase the effectiveness of traditional attacks.
Can ChatGPT generate complex malicious code?
The possibility of ChatGPT creating sophisticated malware is limited. Although AI can generate basic code snippets or simple scripts, OpenAI developers have implemented restrictions that prevent malware from being created directly. Furthermore, generating effective malware requires specific knowledge in advanced programming, aspects that an AI like ChatGPT cannot yet cover autonomously.
However, some hackers have found ways to leverage AI to refine code, debug bugs, and simplify certain development processes, which is a considerable help for those less experienced in cybercrime.
Prevention and education
Despite these risks, current cybersecurity tools, such as XDR platforms and real-time monitoring solutions, are already implementing ways to detect suspicious activities that may involve the use of AI. Technology companies and security experts emphasize the importance of educating users about these new attack methods and having threat detection systems that can identify anomalous behavior patterns. It is a reality that, although AI can be used for good, it is also vulnerable to misuse, and being warned and educated is the best way to avoid being a victim.
In conclusion, although ChatGPT and similar AI models are not designed or trained to directly create advanced cyberattacks, they have been shown to facilitate certain aspects of cybercrime for those seeking to exploit their capabilities. Education and implementation of robust security tools will continue to be the key to protecting yourself in a world where technology, for better or worse, continues to evolve at an unprecedented speed.
