Bing Chat, an AI-powered chatbot developed by Microsoft, is facing a significant security concern as cybercriminals are exploiting it to spread malware through counterfeit websites. This alarming discovery has been brought to light by the well-known cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes, raising concerns about the potential harm it poses to unsuspecting users who unknowingly download malicious content onto their devices.
Introduced by Microsoft in early 2023, Bing Chat utilizes the advanced GPT-4 language model to engage users in authentic conversations on a wide range of topics. However, according to the report by Malwarebytes, during interactions with Bing Chat, users may encounter advertisements in the form of links. These links are being manipulated by malicious actors to distribute malware.
The compromised advertisements resemble Advanced IP scanners, and when users inquire about software downloads, a link appears within the chat, along with sponsored links at the top. Clicking on these sponsored links leads users to a website that uses sophisticated methods to distinguish between human users and automated bots or crawlers. If identified as a genuine human visitor, they are then redirected to a deceptive website with the URL ‘advanced-ip-scanner[.]com.’ On this deceptive site, users are prompted to download an installer, which unfortunately contains harmful software.
To safeguard against these risks, Bing Chat users are advised to exercise heightened caution when interacting with links provided by the chatbot. While Bing Chat remains a valuable source of information, it is important to be aware of and take precautions against the potential dangers of counterfeit advertisements.
One practical step users can take is to use conventional search engines, as they typically present sponsored ads in a more transparent manner. Additionally, installing an ad blocker can proactively protect devices against malicious advertisements, reducing the chances of unintentionally promoting harmful websites.
The reported security concerns surrounding Bing Chat highlight the ever-present threats in the digital landscape. Users must remain vigilant and adopt protective measures to ensure their online safety. By staying informed and taking precautions, individuals can minimize the risks associated with malware and counterfeit websites.
In conclusion, the exploitation of Bing Chat by cybercriminals to spread malware through counterfeit websites is a cause for concern. Users should be cautious when engaging with links provided by the chatbot and consider using conventional search engines. Installing an ad blocker can also help protect against malicious advertisements. By remaining vigilant and taking necessary precautions, users can stay safe in the online environment.
