The dark side of AI democratization: You no longer need to be a hacker to hack

Guardrails should be implemented to prevent the misuse of open-source AI models, says an ASU information systems expert.

In this story published Sept. 21, 2024, in The Hill:

Novices with little hacking experience can now use AI-generated phishing content, malware, and more to target everything from individual bank accounts to power plants. Easier access to hacking tools is especially dangerous, as more physical devices and systems, from cars to toothbrushes to the electric grid, are connected to the internet and open themselves up to attacks. The "Flipper Zero," a small device anyone can use to hack traffic lights, is an early example of the threat that amateur hackers can pose to physical systems.

The democratization of AI, including through open-source platforms, has major benefits. When anyone can experiment with the technology, it enables entrepreneurship and innovation and prevents monopolization by big tech companies. At the same time, open AI models can be bootstrapped for nefarious purposes.

– Victor Benjamin, assistant professor of information systems