News

Hackers Are Using ChatGPT As A Learning Tool For Malware

Hackers and cybercriminals are experimenting with the popular AI chat tool to lend a helping hand in their criminal activities.

Published

1 year ago

January 17, 2023

Nour Nasir

hackers are using chatgpt as a learning tool for malware

OpenAI’s ChatGPT tool has become something of a viral sensation over recent months, with the ability to mimic human responses and even write entire essays for students.

However, ChatGPT’s powers — like many emerging technologies — can be put to work for more nefarious activities, and we’re now beginning to see hackers jump on the AI bandwagon to help them steal personal information more effectively.

Check Point Research, a leading cyber threat intelligence agency, has discovered that Russian fraudsters are experimenting with OpenAI’s ChatGPT for malicious purposes. Hackers have been seen on underground forums discussing how to get around IP address restrictions, credit cards, and phone numbers in order to use the AI tool.

“Right now, Russian hackers are actively discussing and researching how to bypass the geofencing to utilize ChatGPT for their harmful intentions. We think these hackers are most likely attempting to incorporate and test ChatGPT into their daily illegal activities,” says Check Point’s Threat Intelligence Group Manager, Sergey Shykevich.

Unfortunately, ChatGPT is such a potent and flexible tool that it can significantly reduce hacking expenses, as well as writing convincing human conversations and false information. More worryingly, the AI can even suggest usable programming scripts, enabling scammers with zero coding experience to create harmful malware.

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Cybercrime experts haven’t yet decided whether or not ChatGPT will become a new favorite tool for dark web criminals, but it’s clear that the technology is gaining momentum. Across the MENA region, there have been multiple instances of scammers using WhatsApp and other messengers to steal user’s money, but ChatGPT could help criminals go one stage further by creating convincing conversations complete with accurate grammar.

As more free-to-use AI tools appear on the internet, hackers will find increasing opportunities to create sophisticated and legitimate-appearing phishing campaigns, making it more important than ever for the public to carefully audit their online security.

News

Hamad International Wins 2024 Skytrax World Airport Awards

The Qatar airport also won “World’s Best Airport Shopping” for the 2nd time, and “Best Airport in the Middle East” for the 10th year.

Published

23 hours ago

April 18, 2024

Nour Nasir

hamad international wins 2024 skytrax world airport awards

Hamad International Airport (DOH) in Doha, Qatar, has once again won the “World’s Best Airport” title at the Skytrax World Airport Awards. The award ceremony, held at the Passenger Terminal Expo 2024 in Frankfurt, Germany, also saw Hamad clinch the accolade of “World’s Best Airport Shopping” for the 2nd time in a row and “Best Airport in the Middle East” for an impressive 10th consecutive year.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Eng. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, who played a key role in the airport’s development over the past decade, said: “This is a remarkable achievement for Hamad International Airport, as it celebrates its 10th anniversary of operational excellence, connecting passengers seamlessly from all around the world. It is a testament to the dedication of our team and partners, who have contributed to providing passengers with the finest travel experience”.

hamad international airport doha qatar

Al-Meer emphasized the importance of understanding changing travel trends and the needs of modern air passengers: “At the heart of our growth strategy lies the passengers’ journey, their evolving needs, and our commitment to meeting and exceeding their expectations. We have introduced a diverse range of experiences at the airport, including Souq Al Matar, which brings Qatari hospitality and culture closer to travelers, “Orchard”, the ideal place for relaxation and rejuvenation between flights, and an array of high-end lounges”.

Also Read: Top E-Commerce Websites In The Middle East In 2024

Hamad International Airport saw a massive 31% surge in passenger traffic during 2023, with the transport hub now serving over 45 million passengers annually. The airport is now home to prestigious airlines, including Vistara, Iberia, Xiamen Airlines, Garuda Indonesia, and Japan Airlines, serving 250+ destinations for passenger and cargo flights.

The uptick in traffic is no doubt due to the completion of the first phase of an extensive expansion project. Hamad’s management intends to radically update the airport’s facilities over the coming years in a bid to create the “airport of the future”. The expansion features a unique and calming environment of lush greenery and several contemporary dining and shopping concepts among the already well-equipped leisure facilities.