Spooked By AI Threats? Here’s What’s Actually Worth Worrying About

The pace of AI innovation is accelerating rapidly, transforming how businesses operate. While this progress is thrilling, it's crucial to recognize that cybercriminals have equal access to AI technologies. Below, we expose some of the hidden dangers lurking in the shadows and how you can defend against them.

Imposters in Your Video Calls: Beware of Deepfake Scams

Deepfake technology powered by AI has become alarmingly realistic, and criminals exploit this in sophisticated social engineering attacks targeting organizations.

To illustrate, a recent case involved an employee at a cryptocurrency firm who was tricked by deepfake versions of their company's executives during a Zoom meeting. These impersonations instructed the employee to install a Zoom extension granting microphone access, ultimately opening a doorway for a North Korean cyberattack.

For businesses, these scams complicate traditional verification protocols. Watch for signs such as unnatural facial movements, prolonged silences, or inconsistent lighting conditions during video calls to spot potential deepfakes.

Silent Invaders in Your Inbox: Watch Out for Sophisticated Phishing Emails

Phishing emails have long been a threat, but AI now aids attackers by crafting messages that are more refined, making typical giveaways like poor grammar ineffective for detection.

Cybercriminals also leverage AI tools to translate phishing content into multiple languages, enabling them to expand the reach of their fraudulent campaigns globally.

Nonetheless, conventional defenses remain vital. Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) significantly raises the bar, as attackers rarely possess access to secondary devices like your phone. Continual security awareness training equips employees to identify warning signs, such as emails pressuring urgent action.

Fake AI Tools: Malware Disguised as Innovation

Hackers exploit AI's popularity by creating counterfeit "AI tools" packed with malware, preying on users eager to try the latest tech trends. They craft these malicious programs with just enough legitimate function to deceive users.

For example, a notorious TikTok account showcased "cracked software" installs for applications like ChatGPT through PowerShell commands, which in truth were part of a malware distribution scheme uncovered by security researchers.

Keeping your team informed through security awareness training is essential. Additionally, consult your Managed Service Provider (MSP) to thoroughly assess any AI tools before integrating them into your business environment.

Prepared to Eliminate AI-Driven Threats from Your Business?

Click here or call us at 281-367-8253 to arrange your complimentary 15-Minute Discovery Call today. Let's discuss how to safeguard your team from AI's darker side before it escalates into a serious risk.