The emergence of AI-driven cryptocurrency crimes signals a new phase of cyber threats, as detailed in a recent Elliptic report that exposes the exploitation of advanced technologies for deepfake scams, state-sponsored attacks, and other sophisticated illicit activities.
The report highlights a concerning advertisement for an “unethical” generative pre-trained transformer (GPT) found on the dark web, claiming that “AI has two faces, just like humans.”
This dual nature of AI is further exemplified in the WormGPT advertisement featured in the report. Elliptic also uncovered the use of deepfake videos depicting Elon Musk and former Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to promote fraudulent investment schemes.
Additionally, the report sheds light on the rising prevalence of deepfake deceptive tactics used by scammers on social media platforms to deceive unsuspecting victims into parting with their money.
Anne Neuberger, the U.S. Deputy National Security Advisor for Cyber and Emerging Technologies, has expressed growing concerns about AI criminal activities, cautioning that AI is being misused for more than just everyday scams.
The report delves into the extent of AI misuse, particularly evident on dark web forums. As dark web activity escalates, so does the risk of exposure and downfall, as demonstrated by the recent arrest of a 23-year-old dark web marketplace owner in New York on May 18. The individual was charged with operating a $100 million dark web narcotics marketplace and profiting from it, following an investigation by the FBI into his crypto transfers.
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