ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence (AI) created by OpenAI. It uses internet content to copy human language and create surprisingly accurate responses. Since its release last year, ChatGPT has steadily risen in popularity and now cybercriminals are taking advantage of the intrigue. Their tactics seem innumerable. So far attacks in the wild have consisted of phishing scams where they claim ChatGPT can help you make investments, fake ChatGPT apps for Microsoft Windows and Android, fake domains claiming to be ChatGPT, and impersonation using ChatGPT to generate dialogue. Some tips from the Better Business Bureau (https://www.bbb.org/) are below.
How to protect yourself from cyber criminals using ChatGPT
Here are several tips on how to protect yourself from scammers and cyber criminals using ChatGPT:
• Be cautious of unsolicited messages. Use extreme caution if you receive a message from someone you don't know. Don’t click on included links or provide requested personal information. Contact them directly to confirm its authenticity if the message appears from a legitimate organization, such as a bank or government agency.
• Verify the identity of the person you're chatting with. Verify their identity if they're chatting with someone online, especially if they're asking for personal information or money. Ask for their contact information, like their business email address or personal phone number, and confirm it’s legit. If possible, communicate with them through a secure and verified messaging platform rather than an unsecured platform.
• Scrutinize text. AI written text often uses the same words repeatedly. It also uses short sentences with unimaginative language and no idioms or contractions. Content may include implausible statements. If something seems off, trust your gut.
• Use two-factor authentication for your online accounts. Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts by requiring an additional code to log in, usually sent to your phone. This makes it more difficult for scammers to access your accounts even if they manage to steal your password.
• Use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords. Don’t use your dog’s name and your birth date. Avoid using the same password for everything. We know that gets complicated, but password managers help. Using a password manager generates and stores strong passwords for your online accounts, making it more difficult for scammers to gain access.
• Be cautious when downloading files or clicking on links. Use care, especially if files or links come from an unknown source. Scammers can use ChatGPT to generate convincing messages that appear to be from a legitimate source, such as a friend or colleague. Verify the source before clicking on any links or downloading any files.
• Use caution when talking to strangers. To avoid falling victim to a scam, be cautious when engaging with people online, especially those who seem too good to be true. Be wary of anyone asking for money or personal information, especially if you’ve never met them. Watch out for anyone who refuses to video chat or meet in person because this could be a sign that they are not who they claim to be. If you suspect, you may be a victim, stop communicating with the scammer immediately and report the incident to the authorities.
Scammers and cybercriminals are using ChatGPT to trick people into giving away their personal information and money, and they’d love to take you for everything you’ve got. However, being cautious can protect yourself and your data even from AI-generated threats.
