Today, artificial intelligence (AI) is regularly used in our daily lives, whether it's for recognition used to unlock our mobile phones, to search for the best holiday destinations online, or to receive recommendations for series and movies on any streaming service. Machines have always been tools that help us simplify life and create a better future for everyone. However, these innovations are not without inherent risks. The most recent and interactive leap was the appearance of AI chatbots – particularly the ChatGPT model.

To better understand what ChatGPT is, it is important to understand what a chatbot is. A chatbot is a computer program that simulates a human conversation to assist in communication and service with a customer through artificial intelligence. The software mimics this human response from voice or text commands, reducing the need for human action.

In 2022, OpenAI launched ChatGPT, created to interact through conversation, allowing for answering follow-up questions, admitting mistakes, challenging incorrect premises, and rejecting inappropriate requests.

Cybersecurity risks associated with ChatGPT

Although the emergence of chatbot technology has proven beneficial, there are still many skeptics, and for good reason. It is not by chance that several education entities in the US and Europe have blocked access to ChatGPT, fearing negative impacts on student learning and the accuracy of produced content.

Misinformation has been a constant concern for the ChatGPT program, which learns only from existing human data on the internet - which is far from a reliable source most of the time.

However, the most crucial aspect to consider is the threat to cybersecurity that the advanced Chatbot has suddenly created. This is a dangerously strong AI that can pose a significant cybersecurity risk and should be taken seriously. A clear example was the attempt to create a phishing email, in which ChatGPT initially mentions that such content may violate its content policy, but after more instructions, ends up creating a possible phishing email. The same goes for the apparent ability to help cybercriminals write malicious code.

ChatGPT security risks

In general, we can say that the main security risks with the use of ChatGPT are as follows:

Malware

Malware usually has a very short life cycle: a cybercriminal creates it, infects some devices, and then operating systems send an update that protects devices from this specific malware. Additionally, technology sites warn about emerging malware threats, and the threat potency is quickly neutralized. However, ChatGPT is capable of writing numerous malicious codes, potentially significantly increasing malware attack rates.

While a human would have to take a break to eat and sleep, artificial intelligence can do so non-stop. Cybercriminals could turn a malware operation into a 24-hour digital crime machine.

Phishing

Phishing attacks, usually known for having grammar and spelling errors, are improving message quality with AI. ChatGPT also understands tone commands, so cybercriminals can increase the urgency character in messages that demand immediate payment or responses with passwords.

Fake profiles

Catfish, or people who create false online personas to attract others into relationships, are using AI for fraud. Like malware creators, cybercriminals can now do the same to accelerate simultaneous profile creations. ChatGPT can change the tone of messages, a support for criminals, allowing for creating statements that can convince someone to hand over personal identification information for money transfers.

How to prevent ChatGPT frauds

With the increasing popularity of ChatGPT, it is important to be even more vigilant and we would like to remind you of some tips to keep your data protected from threat agents who try to take advantage of technology.

Stay informed

This may seem like a very basic tool, but training and the ability to recognize a cyber attack or malware before allowing it to enter your network is potentially the only thing between you and a threat agent. Being suspicious of suspicious emails and links will greatly help in protecting your information. There are some indicators of a message written by AI - short phrases and reuse of words. In addition, Artificial Intelligence can create content that says a lot without forming an opinion.

Use a secure password

Another very basic security tip that is often overlooked, although it is usually the first line of defense against data theft. Make sure that the chosen password is complex and difficult to guess.

Activate two-factor authentication

Most networks already have two-factor authentication features that ensure unique factors are used to verify a user's identity before granting access. This provides an extra layer of security to your network to prevent breaches.

Install antivirus software

Antivirus software protects the network against malware, phishing attacks and most other cyber threats.

Monitor your accounts

Being aware of activities in your bank account and network helps you quickly detect suspicious behavior and act immediately to reduce the risk of further damage to the network or account.

Keep software up to date

The operating system needs to always be at peak performance to provide adequate protection for the network. Make sure that the latest updates are installed on devices to mitigate security flaws and bugs found in previous versions.