AI-based tools are increasingly used in disinformation campaigns and cybercrime. Understanding these tools and their uses may help you understand potential actions you can take in recovering your data. However, this technology is not yet perfect and a multidisciplinary approach will be necessary to combat cybercrime.
AI-based tools are being used to conduct cybercrime
Cybercriminals are using AI-based tools to automate their operations and improve the effectiveness of traditional cyberattacks. These applications include AI-powered malware, ransomware-as-a-service, and targeted cyberattacks. As technology becomes more widespread, the use of AI by criminals is expected to increase. As a result, criminals will be able to target more victims at once.
One of the most alarming applications of AI technology is the use of bots to spread fake news and content. These bots can mislead and disinform the population, particularly younger generations. They can also undermine the credibility of media and democratic institutions. Therefore, it is vital to building safeguards into AI systems.
Artificial intelligence is a powerful way to detect malicious code. AI-based tools can automatically analyze large amounts of data and identify suspicious activities. Using this technology can help companies identify suspicious activity quickly, reducing the impact on their business. For example, McLaren Formula One uses the AI-based cybersecurity solution Darktrace to automate defense functions.
As AI is becoming more widespread, it is expected to be used in every aspect of society. Cybercrime is no exception. A recent study found that AI-based tools are already being used by cybercriminals and can help stop them.
AI-based tools are being used to conduct disinformation campaigns
As the sophistication of AI-based tools continues to rise, it's important to understand how these systems work and how they are being used by threat actors. Authoritarian regimes have begun using these technologies for disinformation campaigns and are seeking new capabilities to project their messages.
While foreign-based campaigns garner the most attention, domestic actors are also adopting similar tactics. Moreover, they are outsourcing their operations to a transnational disinformation-for-hire industry. And as long as actors have the resources and the motivation to fund these operations, they will continue to invest in advanced AI capabilities.
As we learn more about the technology used for disinformation, we will be able to better evaluate it and better counter its effects. This includes the use of content analytics. By analyzing textual content, AI-based tools can detect cues that separate computer-generated content from human-produced content. For example, AI-based tools can look for word vectors, word positioning, and connotation. They can also detect traces of hate speech and reverse-engineer manipulated images and videos to prevent them from spreading disinformation.
While AI-based tools are already being used to spread misinformation, it is critical to ensure that human intervention is part of the overall response. AI-based tools can be incorporated into tools and applications that not only flag false content but also educate users about information manipulation techniques. AI-based tools can also be used to promote factual information and foster digital literacy. However, there are still several barriers to using AI-based tools to combat disinformation.