Meta Discovers Rise in ChatGPT-Related Malware
Facebook owner Meta has recently released a report that shows how malware distributors are exploiting public interest in ChatGPT, a popular AI-powered chatbot. The company says that it has discovered over 10 malware families and more than 1,000 malicious links since March that were promoted as tools featuring ChatGPT.
Unlike traditional malware, some of these malicious files offer functional ChatGPT capabilities alongside other abusive files. This has become a cause for concern for Meta, as these malware distributors are essentially using the hype around ChatGPT to lure unsuspecting users into downloading these harmful files.
The New Crypto
Meta’s Chief Information Security Officer, Guy Rosen, stated during a press briefing that ChatGPT has become the new crypto for malicious actors. Cybercriminals are leveraging generative AI technologies like ChatGPT, which can be used to create human-like writing, music, and art.
As lawmakers have raised red flags over these tools, Rosen stated that the company is preparing its defenses for a range of potential abuses linked to generative AI technologies, including ChatGPT, which could facilitate disinformation campaigns.
The Future of Information Operations
Meta executives have indicated that it is still early to tell if generative AI is currently being utilized in information operations. However, bad actors are expected to leverage this technology to speed up and scale their activities further.
As technology continues to advance, it is critical that users are aware of the risks associated with downloading files from unknown sources, particularly those that claim to offer functionality for popular services like ChatGPT.
