How Do Cybercriminals Use AI?

Running a business is already a tightrope walk—the last thing you need is cyberattacks adding to the stress. Here’s the bad news: hackers are getting smarter, using artificial intelligence (AI) to craft cunning attacks that steal your data and cripple your operations. 

Don’t panic! This blog will break down how AI is fueling cybercrime and, more importantly, how you can fight back—the good news. We’ll show you steps to safeguard your business and keep it thriving. 

How Hackers Use AI 

Here are some of the ways cybercriminals are exploiting AI: 
 
Deepfakes: Hackers use AI to create highly realistic fake videos or audio recordings to impersonate someone you know, like your boss or a trusted friend. These deepfakes can be used to trick you into sending money or sharing sensitive information. Deepfakes have been used to target celebrities and well-known public figures for a few years now. See if you can spot the difference between AI and Reality here. 
  
How to spot it: Closely look for details like unnatural facial movements or sloppy voice synchronization. 
  
AI-powered password cracking: With the help of AI, cybercriminals can effortlessly crack common and easy passwords. Hackers with access to advanced computation offered by AI can automate the breaching process, so they can try millions of combinations to guess your password.  

How to fight back: Always use unique passwords. Consider using a password manager. Set up two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever and whenever you can. 

AI-assisted hacking: Hackers no longer have to spend hours looking for vulnerabilities. Instead, with the help of AI, they can create automated programs that not only identify weaknesses in your system but also create new types of malware. 
  
How to stay ahead: Keep your security systems and software updated. Also, a mandate should be set up to scan for vulnerabilities routinely. 
  
Supply chain attacks: Threat actors insert malicious code into legitimate vendor products on illegitimate sites, which eventually will compromise your system if downloaded. 
  
How to protect yourself: Only download software from trusted sources. Always be vigilant with updates and patches. 

Boost Your Defenses 

If staying on top of the latest threats and implementing these defenses feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. That’s where Catalyst IT comes in. We’re a team of passionate security experts who can help you craft a robust defense strategy, tailored to your specific needs. Consider us your AI-fighting allies.  
 
When you’re ready to take control of your cybersecurity, we’ll be here, ready to assist.