Hackers are exploiting an AI tool called WormGPT for malicious purposes, particularly in crafting phishing attacks. WormGPT, which is similar to ChatGPT, specializes in creating Business Email Compromise (BEC) attacks targeted at large businesses. These attacks involve personalized emails aimed at deceiving recipients into clicking on malicious links.
Unlike ChatGPT, WormGPT is an open-source AI module based on the 2021 GPT-J language model. It possesses advanced features such as unlimited character support, chat memory retention, and code formatting capabilities, making it capable of creating malware attacks. The danger lies in WormGPT’s accessibility, which allows anyone to download and use it for illicit purposes.
In addition to WormGPT, hackers have also found ways to exploit ChatGPT by employing a process known as “jailbreaking”. This process unlocks new functionalities in existing large-language-model (LLM) platforms like ChatGPT, enabling the extraction of sensitive information, generation of inappropriate content, disclosure of confidential data, and execution of malicious code. However, ChatGPT has implemented safeguards against these attacks.
Maanak Gupta, an assistant professor of computer science, emphasizes the importance of training the workforce to effectively use generative AI LLM tools for cybersecurity defense and offense. Cybersecurity experts adopt an attacker’s mindset to proactively anticipate and counter threats using AI. Nonetheless, user vigilance remains the primary defense against AI-enhanced phishing attacks. Employees and organizations must be aware and cautious when interacting with digital content to prevent catastrophic data breaches.
Overall, the rise of AI-enhanced phishing attacks highlights the need for cybersecurity training and awareness to combat evolving threats in the online world. Staying alert and exercising caution are crucial in defending against these cyberattacks.
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