ChatGPT has been turning heads and capturing imaginations ever since its release in November. This generative artificial intelligence chatbot has given us a wealth of new possibilities and potential uses, from data mining to problem solving. Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42, however, has noticed darker intentions among threat actors, who have been using the technology for malicious purposes like phishing, malware coding, and data mining.
Despite the potential for cyberattacks using generative artificial intelligence, security experts caution against panic. While the number of malicious URLs related to ChatGPT is concerning, it has yet to create fully fledged and successful malware code, much less leverage its data mining capabilities to wreak havoc among unsuspecting users. Furthermore, according to a January survey of IT professionals, most respondents expect ChatGPT to be used in a successful cyberattack sometime this year.
This prospect has unnerved many, but rather than be discouraged, CISOs like Jon France of (ISC)2 advise users to keep an eye out for the common dangers involving ChatGPT, such as phishing, malware composition, and data contextualization. As companies and governments get better at employing the tool, they can use it to bolster and upgrade their defense mechanisms, rather than open the door to adversaries.
Darktrace’s Justin Fier echoes this sentiment, insisting that the little fear-mongering around ChatGPT and generative AI in general is largely driven by hype. As we become more knowledgeable about the technology, we can better equip ourselves to benefit from the advantages and mitigate the risks.
BlackBerry’s security solutions are at the forefront of the emerging generative AI field. Their services offer a unique perspective on data based on which users can make more informed decisions, as well as the ability to quickly detect the latest threats across all cyberspace. This makes their solutions the perfect counterpart for large companies and government agencies striving to protect their networks and personnel
Jon France of (ISC)2 is a well-known leader in the cybersecurity industry, leading the education and certification of security professionals around the world. By staying abreast of the latest trends in the field and working to drive best practices and standards, he has greatly contributed to the security of many organisations, including (ISC)2.
