Five Scariest AI Threats in 2024

Mikko Hypponen, a seasoned figure in the battle against malware, has dedicated decades to combating AI-driven cybersecurity threats destructive computer programs. Having earned accolades and recognition, he is currently a senior researcher at a prominent Scandinavian cybersecurity company, With Secure. In a recent article on The Next Web, author Thomas Macaulay delves into Hypponen’s concerns about the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on cybersecurity.

Hypponen, who has appeared on Foreign Policy Magazine’s list of the 100 greatest thinkers, foresees an AI revolution surpassing the magnitude of the internet revolution. While optimistic about its positive impact on the world, he is wary of the accompanying cybersecurity threats. As of the beginning of 2024, Hypponen highlights five major concerns:

1. Deepfakes

Deepfakes, an area extensively exploited by criminals in AI, pose a growing threat. Despite not yet achieving a flawless simulation of reality, attempts to use deepfakes in videos and audios have surged by 3,000% in 2023. Hypponen anticipates an increase in fraudulent deepfake videos, emphasizing the importance of using distinctive words in video calls to verify authenticity.

2. Deep Network Scams

Distinguished from deepfake videos, deep network scams leverage automation to target a vast number of individuals. Operating in various fields such as investment, account theft, and online dating, these scams can use large language models to spread misinformation, increasing their potential impact.

3. Malware based on LLMS

Hypponen warns of AI-driven malicious software, highlighting the emergence of electronic bugs releasing language-based programs designed to rewrite programming code. Although not yet deployed in the real world, these bugs, utilizing the “Open AI” platform, pose challenges in detection and may lead to the dissemination of harmful content.

4. Zero-Day Attacks

Concerns arise regarding zero-day attacks exploiting vulnerabilities before developers can address them. AI’s ability to detect these vulnerabilities early is a double-edged sword, as it could also be utilized by malicious actors to create vulnerabilities. Hypponen suggests utilizing AI to find and address software vulnerabilities promptly.

5. Automated Malware

With the widespread adoption of automation in cyberattacks, the traditional superiority of AI-driven cybersecurity threats companies is diminishing. Hypponen emphasizes the impending battle over who can develop and use AI more effectively, predicting that fully automated malware will become the primary cyber threat in 2024.

In navigating these evolving challenges, Hypponen advocates for proactive measures, including distinctive verification methods and increased vigilance against emerging AI-driven threats. As the world adapts to the AI revolution, the landscape of AI-driven cybersecurity threats demands continuous innovation and resilience.

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