OpenAI’s ChatGPT program has revolutionized the accessibility of AI applications, making them available to a wider audience beyond just data scientists and computer engineers. However, not everyone is using these tools for good. A finance worker in Hong Kong fell victim to scammers who used deepfake technology to pose as the company’s CFO and transfer over US$25 million earlier this year.
During a virtual conversation hosted by Fortune in partnership with Accenture, Maria Milosavljevic, group chief information security officer at ANZ Banking Group, expressed concerns about the misuse of AI by both allies and adversaries. The event focused on the intersection of new generative AI tools and cybersecurity, with Scott Wilkie, global lead for emerging technology security at Accenture, highlighting the increasing volume of ransomware and phishing attacks.
Calvin Ng, director of the cybersecurity program center at the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, emphasized the importance of proper risk assessment and management in light of the rising frequency and severity of cyberattacks. Ng also warned about the potential threat of “data poisoning” and the need for organizations to implement safeguards against such attacks.
Microsoft recently announced a breakthrough in mitigating generative AI jailbreak techniques that could generate harmful content. Despite the risks posed by AI, panelists also acknowledged its potential to assist cybersecurity teams in automating incident response.
Cybersecurity is no longer solely the responsibility of IT departments but a collaborative effort involving various parties, including national governments. Collaboration among countries is crucial in combating ransomware attacks and building resiliency in the face of evolving cyber threats.
As technology continues to advance, it is essential for companies to prioritize basic cyber hygiene and invest in cybersecurity measures to protect against sophisticated threats. Just as homeowners secure their doors before investing in advanced security systems, businesses must ensure they have a strong foundation in cybersecurity to defend against malicious actors.