Generative AI impacting cybersecurity

Source: The post generative AI impacting cybersecurity has been created, based on the article “An AI–infused world needs matching cybersecurity” published in “The Hindu” on 10th May 2024.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3-security-cybersecurity

Context: The article discusses the rise in cyber threats linked to generative AI misuse. It highlights how hackers use AI to impersonate voices, phishing attacks are growing, and cybersecurity needs tighter global cooperation.

For details information on Generative AI read this article here

How is generative AI impacting cybersecurity?

Increased Phishing Attacks: Phishing emails surged by 1,265% and credential theft rose by 967% since late 2022 due to AI.

Voice Cloning for Fraud: Hackers imitated a mother’s daughter’s voice to extort money, highlighting the risks of AI-based scams.

Enhanced Hacking Sophistication: AI helps hackers translate code, identify vulnerabilities, and amplify attacks.

Rising Attacks on Organizations: 75% of professionals reported more cyberattacks last year, while 85% linked the trend to AI.

Privacy Erosion: Voice-activated toys and biometric systems threaten individual privacy.

For details information on Concerns related to generative AI read this article here

What are governments doing about it?

Global Cooperation: Countries like the U.S., U.K., China, and India signed the Bletchley Declaration at the AI Safety Summit to strengthen collaboration.

For details information on Bletchley Declaration read this article here

Legislation Development: Governments are working on tighter ethical and legal frameworks to combat AI misuse despite facing challenges in fully understanding the technology.

For more information read Article1, Article 2

What should be done?

Content Watermarking: Implement watermarking for AI-generated content to help identify and limit malicious use.

Digital Literacy Training: Companies should offer training to help employees identify phishing and other scams, with 75% reporting increased cyberattacks.

Public Feedback: Engage the public to improve regulation and ensure protection for privacy and security.

Question for practice:

Examine how governments are addressing the rise in cyber threats linked to generative AI misuse and discuss potential measures to mitigate these risks effectively.