The utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) technology by cybercriminals is now entering a new and more worrying phase. This technology is no longer just an auxiliary tool, but has become the primary driving force in facilitating attacks that are more efficient, automated, and difficult to distinguish from genuine communication.
Cybersecurity experts highlight that AI is now capable of autonomously producing malicious code (malware) and drafting phishing messages with highly flexible and natural language structures. This capability eliminates the language barriers that have previously hindered perpetrators from executing effective cross-border scams.
Anssi Karkkainen, Director General of the National Cyber Security Centre Finland (NCSC-FI), emphasized that the integration of AI reduces operational costs of cyberattacks for criminals, but the consequences are far more lethal. The methods of impersonating trusted entities or parties are now becoming increasingly convincing to potential victims.
Nevertheless, experts emphasize that AI is not the only root of the problem. Gaps in system protection, organizations' reliance on widespread internet connectivity, and the economic motives of the perpetrators remain the main supporting factors driving the increase in attacks across various crucial sectors, ranging from education to public administration.
As a mitigation step, businesses and public institutions are urged to tighten security protocols. Recommended preventive measures include regular software updates, proactive system monitoring, and securing backup data as a crucial recovery strategy in the event of a future security incident.
