Rising security threats in 2024, particularly from AI and cyberattacks

Source: The post rising security threats in 2024, particularly from AI and cyberattacks has been created, based on the article “Disinformation, AI and ‘cyber chakravyuh’” published in “The Hindu” on 13th August 2024

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper 3- security-cybersecurity

Context: The article discusses the rising security threats in 2024, particularly from AI and cyberattacks. It highlights concerns about digital and disinformation threats, using recent examples like the CrowdStrike outage and past cyberattacks. The need for heightened vigilance and better security measures is emphasized.

For detailed information on Generative AI impacting cybersecurity read this article hear

What are the main security threats in 2024?

1. In 2024, security threats are increasingly coming from AI, including Generative AI and Artificial General Intelligence (AGI).
2. AI has made it easier to create and spread deep fakes, which are manipulated videos, images, or audio.
3. These deep fakes caused confusion, especially during the Taiwan elections in January 2024.
4. AI-generated disinformation has also been used in the Ukraine conflict, disrupting critical infrastructure.
5. Security experts feared digital attacks on the 2024 Summer Olympics in France, held in July-August. They were concerned about cyberattacks and AI-enabled disruptions. However, the games ended without any major incidents, showing the effectiveness of security measures.

What was the significance of the CrowdStrike outage?

1. The CrowdStrike outage, caused by a software glitch in Microsoft Windows, had a global impact.
2. Over eight million Windows devices were affected, disrupting flight operations, air traffic, and stock exchanges.
3. It initially affected parts of the United States but quickly spread to other countries, including India.
4. The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-IN) rated the incident as “critical.”
5. Although not a cyberattack, the incident served as a preview of the kind of widespread disruption that could occur in the event of a large-scale cyberattack.

What are some notable past cyberattacks?

1. WannaCry (2017): This ransomware attack infected over 230,000 computers across 150 countries, causing billions of dollars in damage.
2. Shamoon (2017): Targeted oil companies like Saudi Aramco and RasGas, leading to significant disruptions and was labeled the “biggest hack in history.”
3. Petya (2017): This malware attack severely impacted banks and infrastructure in Europe, the U.S., and Australia.
4. Stuxnet (2010): A state-sponsored cyberattack targeting Iran’s nuclear program, affecting over 200,000 computers, specifically designed to disrupt critical systems.

How are individuals affected by cyber threats today?

1. Cyber fraud and hacking have become common, with many victims falling prey to phishing, identity theft, and false credit card transactions.
2. Fraudsters often pose as delivery agents or use other tactics to obtain personal information.

What should be done to combat digital threats?

1. Governments and industries need better systems to counter digital threats.
2. Companies should employ chief information and security officers to assess and improve their digital defenses.
3. Awareness and coordinated action are crucial to protecting against these evolving threats.

Question for practice:

Examine how the rising use of AI, particularly Generative AI, is contributing to new security threats in 2024, including the spread of deep fakes and AI-generated disinformation.