The rise of adversarial AI threatens smaller organizations

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Cyber threats are evolving, and cybersecurity professionals must adapt to stay ahead of the game.

The report highlights the increasing trend of using AI in cyber attacks. AI-powered tools are being used to create more sophisticated phishing emails, personalized to an individual’s name, location, and interests, making them more convincing and effective. The report also notes that AI-powered tools are being used to create fake social media profiles, to spread malware, and to conduct business email compromise attacks. The report emphasizes the need for cybersecurity professionals to develop skills that are relevant to the evolving threat landscape. The report highlights the importance of understanding the characteristics of AI-powered attacks and how they can be differentiated from traditional attacks.

According to a report by the FBI, in 2023, there were over 1.4 million reported BEC attacks worldwide. This number is expected to continue to rise as more organizations become aware of the threat and take steps to protect themselves.

Understanding the Threat of BEC Attacks

BEC stands for Business Email Compromise. It is a type of cyber attack where an attacker poses as a legitimate business or individual and sends a fake email to a company’s employees, often with the intention of tricking them into transferring money or sensitive information.

Types of BEC Attacks

  • Whaling: Targeting high-level executives or decision-makers with sophisticated emails that mimic the tone and language of the real person. Phishing: Using fake emails to trick employees into revealing sensitive information, such as login credentials or financial data. Spear Phishing: Focusing on specific individuals or groups within an organization, using tailored emails that exploit their interests or vulnerabilities.

    “They’re the backbone of our economy, and they’re the ones who are most vulnerable to the effects of climate change.”

    The Unseen Consequences of Climate Change on Small Businesses

    Climate change is often viewed as a global issue, with its effects felt across the world. However, its impact on small businesses is often overlooked. Small businesses are the backbone of many local economies, providing essential services and products to their communities. Yet, they are disproportionately affected by the changing climate.

    The Vulnerability of Small Businesses

    Small businesses are more vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to several factors. These include:

  • Increased costs: Rising temperatures and extreme weather events lead to increased costs for small businesses, such as higher energy bills and damage to property. Supply chain disruptions: Climate-related disruptions to supply chains can impact small businesses’ ability to source materials and products, leading to stockouts and lost sales. Regulatory challenges: Climate change can lead to new regulations and policies that small businesses may struggle to comply with, adding to their costs and administrative burden. ### The Human Cost of Climate Change on Small Businesses*

    • The Human Cost of Climate Change on Small Businesses

    The human cost of climate change on small businesses is significant. Many small business owners are forced to make difficult decisions, such as:

  • Reducing staff: To stay afloat, small businesses may need to reduce staff, leading to job losses and economic hardship for employees. Closing operations: In extreme cases, small businesses may need to close their operations altogether, leading to economic disruption and community impact.

    You can read more and get the full report on the Abnormal blog.

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