
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has brought about a myriad of benefits, revolutionizing various industries and streamlining processes. However, as with any technological breakthrough, it also presents new challenges, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity. In the year 2020 alone, Action Fraud (the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre) received over 1 million reports of fraud and cybercrime. As AI becomes more sophisticated, cybercriminals are finding ways to exploit its capabilities for malicious purposes, posing a significant threat to individuals and organizations alike.
What AI Can Do and the Associated Risks
AI has the potential to automate and enhance various tasks, from writing and editing articles to programming entire websites. However, this power also carries inherent risks.
The danger for example posed by deepfakes is often mentioned in the news, articles and magazines. And indeed, AI is especially infiltrating the world of social media, enabling the spread of fake news and content that seems too good to be true. In 2023, along with the huge developments in AI, there was a staggering 3000% year-on-year increase in deepfake attempts, marking a 31-fold rise compared to the previous year.
One other major concern is the increased risk of data breaches, as AI tools can inadvertently reveal sensitive company information, especially if users fail to maintain a clear separation between their personal and professional lives or if they lack security software.
Phishing attacks and other forms of hacking aimed at stealing sensitive user data are also becoming more sophisticated with the aid of AI. Phishing attacks are already among the most prevalent forms of cybercrime targeting UK businesses, with 75% of large organizations and 45% of small businesses experiencing phishing attempts in 2020. The use of AI could increase the numbers and make the attacks themselves more efficient.
The potential negative impacts of AI extend beyond job losses and data breaches. Social manipulation through AI-generated algorithms, socioeconomic inequality due to biased AI recruitment tools, and even the influence of AI on warfare and financial markets are all valid concerns.
Advantages of Using an Antivirus Program
In the face of these emerging threats, Antivirus programs are becoming more important than ever. Norton, a leading cybersecurity company, offers powerful protection for personal devices and a range of advantages to minimize the risk of falling victim to AI-enabled cybercrime. Nortons Antivirus Programm for Windows 11 provides real-time protection against ransomware, viruses, spyware, phishing attempts, and other online threats, safeguarding your Windows 11 computer and personal information. One of the key features of Norton’s antivirus software is its multi-layered defence system, which employs various techniques to detect and neutralize threats. This includes advanced tools like a smart firewall, anti-phishing protection, and a password manager, ensuring comprehensive security for your online activities. Furthermore, Norton’s solutions are designed to support small businesses in preventing cyberattacks, offering protection against viruses, malware, and ransomware, while keeping sensitive data and information secure. With its real-time protection and continuous updates, Norton stays ahead of the curve, providing a robust defence against the ever-evolving landscape of AI-enabled cybercrime. Not for nothing does Norton consistently receive top ratings from independent testing labs like AV-TEST and AV-Comparatives for its ability to detect and block various types of malware threats, including viruses, trojans, ransomware, and zero-day attacks
As AI continues to advance, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity measures. By leveraging the expertise and cutting-edge solutions offered by companies like Norton, we can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals and ensure a safer digital environment for all.