Meta says ChatGPT-related malware is on the rise. (AFP)

Shocking Rise of ChatGPT-Related Malware Threatens Online Security

Beware of the latest malware trend – hackers are exploiting ChatGPT’s popularity to deceive users into downloading malicious apps.

ChatGPT, the popular artificial intelligence-powered chatbot, has recently become the target of malicious attacks. Hackers have been using the public’s fascination with this technology to spread malware, infecting users’ devices and stealing sensitive information. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this disturbing trend, and provide tips on how to protect yourself from these threats.

In recent months, Facebook owner Meta has uncovered multiple cases of malware being promoted as tools featuring ChatGPT. According to a report released by the company, more than 1,000 malicious links and 10 malware families were discovered since March of this year. These links and apps claimed to offer additional features or functionalities of ChatGPT but instead delivered abusive files and malware.

Some malware was even found to deliver working ChatGPT functionality, making it harder for users to detect the malicious intent behind these apps. This is a concerning trend, as generative AI technologies like ChatGPT can be used to create convincing fake content, making it easier for hackers to deceive unsuspecting users.

During a press briefing on the report, Meta’s Chief Information Security Officer, Guy Rosen, stated that for bad actors, “ChatGPT is the new crypto.” This analogy highlights how hackers are leveraging the hype around ChatGPT to deceive users into downloading malware.

With the rise of generative AI technologies like ChatGPT, there is a growing concern that these tools could be used to propagate online disinformation campaigns. Lawmakers have already flagged this as a potential risk, and it’s likely that we will see more cases of generative AI being used for malicious purposes.

Protecting Yourself from ChatGPT Malware:

Given the growing threat of ChatGPT-related malware, it’s essential to take steps to protect yourself. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

  1. Be cautious when downloading apps or browser extensions that claim to offer additional ChatGPT features. Only download from trusted sources and carefully read user reviews before downloading any software.
  2. Keep your operating system and software up to date. This will help protect you from known vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.
  3. Use a reputable antivirus and antimalware software. These tools can detect and remove malware from your device.
  4. Be careful when clicking on links, especially those from unknown sources. Hackers often use social engineering tactics to trick users into clicking on malicious links.
  5. Educate yourself on the latest cybersecurity threats and best practices. Stay informed by reading news articles, attending webinars, and following cybersecurity experts on social media.

Conclusion:

ChatGPT-related malware is a growing threat that users must be aware of. With the rise of generative AI technologies, we can expect to see more cases of these tools being used for malicious purposes. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can protect yourself from ChatGPT malware and stay safe online.