Researchers at Gen, a consumer cybersecurity brand comprising several brands such as Avast and Norton, have made a unique discovery in cybersecurity: cybercriminals are misusing AI tools such as ChatGPT to develop and perfect malware. ).
Through this study, Gen discovered how hackers use ChatGPT to repeatedly create and enhance malicious payloads. Cybercriminals then distribute the enhanced version of their malware on legitimate websites. Their attack strategy includes a remote access system – or Trojan horse (RAT) – and false invitations such as “Activate dev mode for TradingView” in order to manipulate Internet users and encourage them to open programs fraudulent.
Here are Gen’s main findings:
• Malware development facilitated by AI: ChatGPT is directly used to create and perfect malicious scripts.
• The evolution of online attack tactics: Hackers test and improve their payloads regularly before their final release.
• Doubly useful protection: The file protection feature available in Gen’s consumer-branded products, including those from Avast and Norton, not only blocked attacks, but also provided crucial information about the methods of hackers.
This finding highlights the increasing misuse of AI in cybercrime and highlights the importance of implementing proactive cybersecurity measures.
