At Cybolt, we identify the continuous use of artificial intelligence (AI) by criminal groups as one of the main global trends for 2024, aiming to conduct targeted attacks on both individuals and businesses. Understanding how these attacks operate and the strategies being implemented is crucial to anticipating and effectively responding to them.
AI is rapidly advancing and playing fundamental roles within our organizational processes, but it’s not only used for good and productivity. Cybercriminals have found an ally in AI, facilitating their objectives and making attacks more efficient and difficult to detect. While machine learning algorithms and neural networks help detect threats, they are also used to develop more sophisticated attack methods.
Types of Expected Attacks in 2024
- Automated Campaigns: AI allows attackers to launch campaigns without human intervention. For example, the Depp Locker malware uses AI models to avoid detection by security systems. Depp Locker activates automatically, hiding its malicious intentions and triggering when it identifies the victim through biometrics like facial or voice recognition or geolocation systems.
- Phishing: AI makes phishing attacks more effective by generating convincing emails in any language and behavior patterns, providing attackers with a broader range of remote operations. AI is expected to increase phishing and deepfake attacks by 600%, according to El Financiero.
- Vishing: This modality, which involves voice-based identity theft and deception to obtain confidential data, is projected to increase.
- Modular Attacks: According to Fortinet’s 2024 Cyber Threat Predictions, modular attacks will also grow. An attacker might use machine learning during the reconnaissance phase, link it to an AI-based armed payload, and chain it to the deployment of the armed payload.
- Credential Theft: AI will also facilitate credential theft by detecting patterns that reduce password cracking time. Technologies like PassGan use machine learning models that promise to crack 51% of passwords in less than a minute.
A High-Impact AI Attack
We have seen AI-based cyberattacks for several years. A notable and impactful case was the 2021 Colonial Pipeline attack. The cybercriminal group DarkSide used various AI attack techniques to infiltrate systems and execute ransomware that encrypted the company’s data. This attack disrupted fuel supply services on the U.S. East Coast, leading President Joe Biden to declare a state of emergency. This incident highlights how AI makes attacks more dangerous by enabling autonomous and rapid responses, making them highly effective models.
Protection Measures and Strategies
As mentioned, the best strategy when an attack involves human users is raising awareness among corporate network users about the associated digital risks. At Cybolt, we offer resources designed to train corporate staff in recognizing malicious emails and websites, proper password management, and more. We also conduct periodic tests to identify and mitigate organizational vulnerabilities.
Robust cybersecurity systems that alert network infections and detect advanced malicious code are recommended. Using original software and official download sites is crucial, as pirated software can contain malware or backdoors, exposing you to cybercriminals.
For hybrid work models, encrypted communication services like VPNs ensure network security and data confidentiality.
A secure digital business life is possible, and our team is committed to preparing your company to face current risks. Social engineering attacks are a real threat with severe consequences, making it important for everyone to take protective measures.
Remember: the best defense is knowledge. Contact us at [email protected] for more information.
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