According to the ESET Research Podcast, the widespread adoption of AI chatbots has led to a surge in cybercrime activities. The report highlighted how cybercriminals are taking advantage of the popularity of AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, to carry out malicious activities.

The ESET Threat Report H2 2023 revealed that over 675,000 attempts were made in 2023 to access malicious domains imitating the popular chatbot, indicating that cybercriminals have found new ways to exploit AI technologies for their illicit activities. These malicious domains often pose as bring-your-own-key web apps, tricking users into sharing their OpenAI API keys which can then be stolen, leading to unexpected charges for the use of the API.

One of the most significant cyber incidents of the year involved the Cl0p ransomware group, which exploited a zero-day vulnerability in the MOVEit transfer software to carry out a massive attack. The attack affected over 2,600 organizations and resulted in an estimated financial damage of $14 billion. The group leaked the stolen information via the dark web, torrents, and the clear web, intensifying pressure on the victims.

Apart from AI-related cyber threats, the IoT space also faced its own challenges in 2023. The Pandora botnet emerged, targeting Android devices, particularly Android TV boxes. This malware, based on the leaked source code of the Mirai malware, can be delivered through malicious firmware updates or apps offering pirated content.

In response to these cyber threats, the ESET Research Podcast emphasized the need for users to exercise caution when downloading apps, particularly those promising free content. It is vital for users to keep their devices updated and utilize reputable security solutions to protect against cybercrime.

The latest episode of the ESET Research Podcast featured discussions on various aspects of the ESET Threat Report H2 2023. Listeners had the opportunity to obtain insights from the report’s authors and experts in the cybersecurity field.

In conclusion, the ESET Threat Report H2 2023 underscores the growing cyber threats associated with AI chatbots, ransomware attacks, and IoT-related malware. It is imperative for individuals and organizations to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to safeguard against these evolving cyber threats. The full report from H2 2023 provides comprehensive information on these topics and other emerging cyber threats, serving as a valuable resource for cybersecurity professionals and the general public.

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