ChatGPT-Like AI Apps Can Be Used By Scammers To Dupe Professionals, Gamers: McAfee Report

Bad actors can use ChatGPT to clean up their fraudulent SMS messages to make them look professional.

Ever since Microsoft-backed OpenAI released the prototype of ChatGPT in November 2022, institutions are jumping onto the artificial intelligence (AI) bandwagon, trying to integrate AI-driven tools in their operations. However, as per the 2023 Consumer Mobile Threat Report by cybersecurity research firm McAfee, advanced AI tech could be leveraged by scammers to create new mobile threats. As per the report, malicious AI apps can be used by cybercriminals to access users' DMs, target young gamers with phones, or take advantage of Bring Your Own Device policies prevalent in several organisations.

McAfee Chief Technology Officer Steve Grobman said, "Our mobile devices are an essential part of our daily lives now more than ever. They allow us to access a wealth of information and entertainment and provide the freedom to be productive from almost anywhere." 

"Unfortunately, they also provide cybercriminals with greater access to potential victims," he added.

Communication apps that are legitimate can also help scammers use fraudulent messages to trick users into opening malicious links. However, the study noted that about 6.2 per cent of threats identified on Google last year belonged to the "Communication" category, which are primarily malware hiding under the ruse of SMS apps. 

As per the report, 66 per cent of users have been messaged by a stranger on social media, with 55 per cent asked to transfer money.

While these messages sometimes contain spelling or grammar errors or use odd phrasing, the emergence of AI tools like ChatGPT can help scammers clean up their spelling and grammar mistakes, making it tougher to spot scam messages, said the report, adding that around 23 per cent of threats identified were in the "Tools" app category.

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Additionally, the McAfee report mentioned that about 9 per cent of threats identified were Games from app categories such as Casual, Arcade and Action. These apps are mostly used to target young users via gaming, video, and social media platforms. Even work apps such VPNs, PDF editors, and more are used to target professionals. 

Last year, the most common types of threats detected in the gaming category were aggressive adware apps that display excessive advertisements while you're using the app and even when you're not.

(With inputs from IANS)