The tactics of cybercriminals are despicable. They are constantly changing their attack methods to conduct successful ransomware attacks on unsuspecting victims. Most often, they focus on encrypting files and demanding victims to pay for the return of these files.
Last month, new tactics were reported in the world of cybersecurity. Ransomware attackers have begun using double extortion tactics, in which they threaten to leak data they stole if they are not paid. Some criminal groups may even escalate to triple extortion when targeting customers, business partners, and employees to increase pressure on their main target.
The Despicable Shift
Criminal groups are changing tactics thanks to AI. AI can help them generate a convincing legal document to accompany their ransom notes. These fake reports are intentionally designed to intimidate victims with legal and regulatory consequences if they refuse to meet the attackers’ demands.
These documents usually provide an overview on what data was stolen and what the attacker expects in return for the data. The documents look professional and legal so that the ransomware operators can create a greater sense of urgency and fear among their victims.
The goal is to instigate fear in their victims to feel pressure. By feeling immense pressure, the victim cannot stop to think that it could all be fraud, taking actions immediately before they can stop it and minimize the damage.
The Issue with AI
The various tools of AI can help cybercriminals conduct their schemes more efficiently. AI can quickly create these fake legal documents and personalize them for individual victims. Attackers rely on these tools because they can also reference privacy laws, regulatory frameworks, and potential financial consequences.
Because they look authentic, even cybersecurity and legal experts are at the risk of being fooled by these documents.
Words from Experts
Arran Roberts is a partner and consultant in the cyber and data risks division for Kennedys Law. He states that AI-generated legal analyses are primarily intended to put emotional pressure on victims.
Organizations should never ignore the likelihood of real legal and regulatory consequences of a data breach. Paying the hackers is bad enough, however, other factors that can affect the business include what type of data was stolen, any industries involved, the jurisdictions that are affected, and the privacy/data protection laws that are applied.
In most cases, companies affected by a data breach are obliged to notify regulators, customers, and other affected individuals about the attack.
With that said, as AI continues to evolve and become integrated in the world of technology, we must be better prepared for cyberattacks. Hackers are using AI as tools for evil to conduct fraud and steal sensitive data.
For more information, you can read the full article from Cybersecurity Insiders.
Link: https://www.cybersecurity-insiders.com/ransomware-groups-turn-to-ai-to-increase-pressure-on-victims/
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