Top 10 AI-based Cybersecurity threats and dangers in 2023
The cyber security landscape is continuously changing, and artificial intelligence (AI) is playing a growing role in the evolution of threats and defences. As AI is used by both attackers and defenders, the possibility of new and more sophisticated attacks is becoming a reality. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 AI-powered cybersecurity threats and dangers to be aware of as we proceed in 2023.
Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs)
APTs are sophisticated, targeted tactics designed to infiltrate a network and steal critical information. AI can be used to automate the reconnaissance and exploitation aspects of an APT, allowing attackers to find and target weak computers more rapidly and efficiently.
Automotive Hacking
Automotive hacking is the use of cyber-attacks to gain unauthorised access to and modify automotive systems and networks. The potential of automobile hacking is becoming a significant cyber security problem as modern technology such as AI and connectivity is increasingly integrated into vehicles. AI-enabled cars are vulnerable to a wide range of cyber-attacks. Attackers can utilise the internet or wireless networks to remotely access and alter a vehicle's systems, such as taking control of the steering or braking systems. Attackers can employ AI techniques like adversarial machine learning to impair the performance of the car's autonomous systems or deceive the vehicle into making risky decisions.
Social Engineering
Social engineering attacks powered by AI have become increasingly common and widespread. Attackers can readily target victims with individualised messaging through social engineering by employing AI. AI-powered technologies can be used to generate convincing-looking emails, phone calls, and other social engineering strategies to dupe victims into revealing sensitive information or engaging in other nefarious behaviour.
Machine Learning
Machine learning algorithms are increasingly being utilised in real-time to detect, assess, and respond to cyber threats. However, these algorithms are vulnerable to assault since attackers can alter the models using adversarial machine learning techniques, resulting in false positives, or allowing bad actors to elude detection.
Cloud Security
Cloud computing is becoming widespread as a means of storing data and running applications. However, cloud computing security is a concern because data stored in the cloud is open to attack and exploitation. As more businesses shift their data and applications to the cloud, they become more vulnerable to cyber threats.
Mobile Security:
Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting mobile devices. The amount of mobile malware infections climbed by 42% in 2021. Mobile security has become an important topic as mobile devices become more sophisticated and networked.
IoT Security
The Internet of Things (IoT) is growing more widespread in our lives, and IoT device security is a serious worry. IoT devices have the potential to conduct attacks, infiltrate networks, and steal data. An attacker can acquire access to an Internet of Things device and use it to steal data, launch assaults on other devices, or disrupt operations. Attackers can acquire network access or steal data by exploiting flaws in IoT device software or hardware.
Internal Employees
As the threat landscape keeps evolving through AI-powered threats, the risk of an internal employee jeopardising a company's security can no longer be overlooked. Internal staff can be duped into disclosing sensitive information or coerced into malevolent behaviour. Employees may disregard security procedures and best practices, such as using weak passwords, exchanging login credentials, or leaving sensitive data unprotected, putting the firm in danger.
Phishing
Phishing has been around for a long time, but AI-powered phishing assaults are growing more complex. Phishing is a type of cyber-attack in which criminals utilise email, text messaging, or other means of communication to dupe victims into disclosing sensitive information such as login passwords or financial information. To deceive victims into responding, these attacks are generally disguised as official messages from trustworthy sources such as banks or government institutions. AI-powered phishing assaults can be used to target specific people and collect sensitive information or corrupt systems.
Supply Chain Vulnerabilities
Supply chain vulnerabilities can pose a substantial cybersecurity risk because they allow fraudsters to circumvent typical security safeguards and get access to critical data or systems within a business. These attacks can also cause operations to be disrupted, resulting in financial losses and reputational damage. One of the most common ways for supply chain vulnerabilities to be exploited is through the deployment of malicious software, such as malware, which is embedded in products or services as they move through the supply chain. This malware can then enter an organization's networks, stealing sensitive data or disrupting operations.
Organizations can defend their systems and data from hostile attackers by recognising, understanding, and taking steps to evade these top seven AI-powered cybersecurity threats and dangers.