China-Backed Hackers Utilize AI to Target US Companies, NSA Director Warns
China-backed hackers have extensively targeted US companies in recent years using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, according to the director of cybersecurity at the US National Security Agency (NSA), Rob Joyce. Speaking at Fordham University, Joyce highlighted how AI is being leveraged by state-backed hackers to enhance their attacks and specifically target high-profile companies. He emphasized that AI is not only a weapon hackers use to bypass firewalls, but it is also being used by security experts to track down and identify malicious activity.
Joyce did not explicitly mention which cyber attacks were state-backed or involved AI, but he referred to the recent incidents involving Chinese hackers as an example of how artificial intelligence is being employed to defend against attacks on critical infrastructure. He cautioned that these state-backed hackers are intruding into sensitive sectors such as electricity, transportation, pipelines, and courts, aiming to cause societal disruption and panic at their chosen time and place.
Chinese hackers, according to Joyce, exploit vulnerabilities to infiltrate systems under the guise of authorized users. However, the United States employs machine learning, big data, and AI to detect and monitor malicious activities. The advantage lies in the fact that bad actors do not operate like regular users, and AI helps identify their abnormal behavior. Joyce acknowledged that AI is not a magical solution, but it makes those utilizing it more effective and dangerous.
The NSA director also highlighted how less skilled hackers are using AI to overcome their technical shortcomings. Additionally, AI is being used by hackers to craft more convincing phishing emails and improve the professionalism with which they communicate.
As the upcoming US presidential election draws near, the attention of state-backed hackers from China and Russia is intensifying. Following their targeting of Microsoft email servers in July, a Chinese hacking group has recently directed their efforts towards a US research organization.
The growing reliance on AI in cyber attacks is a cause for concern, as hackers continue to evolve their tactics and exploit technological advancements. However, cybersecurity experts, armed with AI and machine learning tools, are proactively working to detect and counter these malicious activities. The battle between hackers and defenders intensifies as both sides utilize AI in their operations.
The use of AI in cyber warfare underscores the need for governments and organizations to prioritize cybersecurity measures. Constant vigilance, regular security updates, and employee training are crucial in mitigating the potential impact of cyber attacks. As technology advances, it is imperative that defenses are bolstered to stay one step ahead of the ever-evolving tactics employed by state-sponsored hacking groups.
