The ways cyber criminals are racing ahead of nation states in using generative AI, the ways large language models can empower faster analysis for cyber defenders, and how the future of cyber security could unfold.
In his latest interview with AI experts on the new revolution triggered by ChatGPT, ZDNET’s Dan Patterson speaks with Recorded Future CEO Christopher Ahlberg.
In recent years, cyber criminals have been increasingly taking advantage of generative artificial intelligence (AI) to advance their malicious activities. Advances in AI technology have enabled criminals to rapidly automate and scale their operations by creating sophisticated cyberattacks that are difficult to detect and counter.
Many countries have yet to implement the necessary resources and capabilities to leverage generative AI for cyber defense. This has created an opportunity for cyber criminals to gain a significant advantage over nation states in the arms race to outsmart cyber defense systems.
Generative AI has enabled cyber criminals to create new and complex attack methods and strategies that can be rapidly deployed across multiple networks. AI-based tools can be used to automate the process of scanning for vulnerable systems, exploiting them, and stealing or destroying data.
Generative AI can also be used to generate vast amounts of malicious code and payloads in a short amount of time, making it difficult for cyber defense systems to keep up with the latest threats. Additionally, AI-based systems can be used by criminals to bypass traditional security measures such as firewalls and anti-virus software by creating code that is specifically designed to evade detection.
The use of generative AI by cyber criminals has serious implications. The inability to leverage generative AI for cyber defense leaves nations vulnerable to cyberattacks and data breaches. As such, nations must take steps to develop and implement effective strategies to counter the use of generative AI by criminals. This includes investing in AI-based technologies and systems that can detect and disrupt malicious cyber activity.
In conclusion, cyber criminals are gaining a significant advantage in the use of generative AI. Nations must take steps to develop and implement effective strategies to protect their networks and systems from malicious cyberattacks. Only then can nations hope to stay ahead of the criminal arms race.