The rapid advance of AI is revolutionizing business, unveiling innovative opportunities—but it also empowers cybercriminals with powerful tools. It’s crucial to recognize the digital threats hidden in this new landscape. Let’s illuminate some of the most dangerous AI-fueled risks lurking in the shadows.

Beware of Video Chat Doppelgängers - The Rising Threat of Deepfakes

AI-generated deepfakes have achieved alarming realism, enabling attackers to execute highly sophisticated social engineering schemes targeting businesses.

Consider a recent case where a cryptocurrency foundation employee encountered deepfake videos mimicking the company’s top executives during a Zoom call. These fabricated personas instructed the employee to install a Zoom extension granting microphone access, facilitating a cyber intrusion linked to North Korea.

Traditional verification methods are being undermined by these scams. To protect your organization, watch for telltale signs—subtle facial discrepancies, awkward pauses, or unnatural lighting—that signal a potential deepfake.

Phishing Emails Evolving - Stay Vigilant Against AI-Powered Scams

Phishing was already a significant threat—the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) consistently ranks phishing as the most-reported cybercrime category, with hundreds of thousands of complaints filed annually. AI dramatically elevates its sophistication by crafting convincing emails free from common errors like poor grammar or misspellings.

Attackers now leverage AI to localize their phishing attempts, translating emails and landing pages seamlessly into multiple languages, exponentially broadening their reach.

Nevertheless, core security measures remain effective. CISA’s guidance on phishing resistance confirms that implementing multilayered defenses such as multifactor authentication (MFA) dramatically reduces risk, as attackers are unlikely to have access to your secondary devices. Additionally, training your team to recognize urgent or pressured messaging helps identify suspicious communication.

Fake AI Tools as Malware Delivery Traps - Don’t Get Fooled

Cybercriminals exploit AI’s hype by distributing fake AI tools filled with malware, often disguised to appear legitimate by mimicking popular trends and events like Black Friday or trending software.

For example, a TikTok account shared videos teaching users how to install “cracked software” bypassing activation for apps like ChatGPT via PowerShell commands—but in reality, it was running a malware distribution campaign uncovered by cybersecurity experts.

Preventing these infections requires ongoing security awareness training. Consult with your Managed Service Provider (MSP) before downloading any AI tools to ensure they are safe and trustworthy.

Ready to Protect Your Business From AI-Driven Threats?

AI-powered cyber threats can be daunting, but with the right strategies, you can keep your organization protected. From deepfakes and phishing scams to malicious AI software, staying informed and prepared is your best defense.

Click here or give us a call at 408-335-0353 to schedule your free Discovery Call today and let’s talk through how to protect your team from the scary side of AI … before it becomes a real problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are deepfakes and how do they pose a threat to businesses?

Deepfakes are AI-generated videos that can convincingly mimic real individuals, making them a tool for sophisticated social engineering attacks. These manipulated videos can mislead employees into taking harmful actions, such as granting unauthorized access to sensitive information.

How can I recognize a phishing email that uses AI?

Phishing emails enhanced by AI are designed to be more convincing, often free of grammatical errors and localized to the recipient’s language. To identify them, look for signs such as urgent requests for information, unfamiliar sender addresses, or links that do not match the supposed source.

What should I do if I suspect I’ve downloaded fake AI software?

If you suspect that you’ve downloaded suspicious AI software, it’s crucial to run a comprehensive malware scan on your device immediately. Disconnect from the internet to prevent further damage and consult with cybersecurity professionals to assess and mitigate any risks.

How can businesses protect themselves from AI-driven cyber threats?

To safeguard against AI-driven cyber threats, businesses should implement multilayered security measures such as multifactor authentication and employee training on recognizing malicious communications. Partnering with a managed IT provider, like One82, can also help establish robust defense strategies tailored to your specific needs.