Many IT departments and experienced network security technicians are using artificial intelligence security based programs to defend their servers and protect their networks because it provides many advantages. However, more and more cybercriminals are also using this technology, taking advantage of AI phishing attacks to increase their reach and be even more successful. When it comes to network security solutions, it can feel a bit like a game of cat and mouse. One side is desperately trying anything they can think of to break in and exploit the system, while the other side is working on prevention, while at the same time fighting the battle with the enemy directly on the frontlines. Business email compromises, malware, phishing exploits, spear phishing, whaling, and much more are all everyday concerns for today’s small business owners and companies of all sizes around the globe.
New Information on Business Email Compromises
While it is well-known throughout the network security solutions industry that business email compromises are now the chief financially motivated attack method used by cybercriminals. This approach beat out ransomware, which had previously held the nefarious top spot for years. New information concerning these attacks reveals that the threat actors are utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) to create their phishing emails, assisting them in making the contacts even more realistic. Vendor impersonation attacks are on the rise, and AI is helping them to be more successful. However, the other side of the coin reveals that artificial intelligence security programs are being deployed by organizations to help prevent these types of attacks from getting through and doing damage.
Common issues that help businesses to spot typical ransomware and malware attacks include issues with formatting, syntax, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and red flagged email address inconsistencies. However, thanks to AI social engineering, many of those problems in the crafting of communications simply disappear. The AI programming takes care of all of it for them to make the bait emails and texts seem more believable. Employees, executives, and all staff in general need to be more aware of this possibility to treat every form of communication as suspect. Training, education, support, and company policies about personal emails and texts at work, as well as learning to spot suspicious contacts and avoid downloads to prevent access are crucial.
Social Media for AI Phishing Attacks
Another way that the criminals are becoming more successful is through the use of spoofed Facebook violations. No one wants to be put into Facebook “jail” for violating community standards, so they are quick to click on links and file an appeal. Unfortunately, these types of personal and business email compromises then gain access to social media credentials and give attackers access to the user’s Facebook Page. All of this information is collected and then sold on the dark web to the highest bidder – or to any number of bidders who might want it for nefarious reasons. AI formatting helps the threat actor to more effectively spoof these Facebook notifications and increase their click ratio to gather as much individual data as possible.
This is not just true for personal accounts, but for those who manage business social media accounts, as well. Industry experts who work with network security solutions everyday say that these business email compromises look legitimate compared to the actual contacts sent out by Meta for Business. While some of these emails will still be easily identified as fakes, others will be more successful. Artificial intelligence security programs can help to spot AI-formatted emails to reduce the risks of compromise. Employee education is even more helpful and can ensure that you and your staff are ready for whatever the cybercriminals think of next.
Network Security Solutions
If you would like to learn more about how Synivate can assist your company in the fight against business email compromises, malware, and ransomware, give us a call at 617-848-1248 and speak with one of our technicians. We can provide custom consulting to help you find the best artificial intelligence security and network security solutions based on your unique needs and requirements. Don’t let AI phishing attacks exploit the weakness of your organization. Start working with our team today and build a strong preventive approach to cyberattacks of all types and sizes.