Global data breaches are showing no signs of slowing down, with 2024 already surpassing 2023 in the number of breaches and people affected, according to Experian.
AI Cyber Incidents and Teen Cybercriminals
Cyber hacking isn’t just for adults anymore. The FBI reports that the average age of someone arrested for cybercrime is 19, compared to 37 for other crimes. Many teens are recruited by more experienced fraudsters through online gaming, social media, and chat platforms.
As more states pass laws against revenge porn, cyberbullying, and online fraud, the number of teens prosecuted for hacking and scams could increase dramatically.
Companies are also training employees to use AI responsibly, but some insiders may misuse this training for theft or fraud. Experts predict that at least one major company could fall victim to insider fraud using AI tools next year.
Global Cyberattacks and AI Threats
Big data centers have been targets for years, but with the rapid rise of generative AI (GenAI), a new risk is emerging: power. A single ChatGPT query uses nearly 10 times more electricity than a regular Google search, creating a new weakness for attackers to exploit.
Around the world, cloud security varies by country. Cybercriminals may soon target a nation’s cloud systems by attacking the power supply needed to run them.
Hackers Targeting Other Hackers
A growing trend in cybercrime is hackers attacking other hackers. A recent case involved a group of hackers being tricked by more advanced malware, losing their stolen money in the process. These hacker-on-hacker battles are expected to increase next year, either for political reasons or to steal money.
AI-Driven Fraud on the Rise
AI-powered fraud is advancing so quickly that scammers will soon create fake documents that look completely real, fooling even the best ID systems. To fight this, governments might start using dynamic IDs that constantly change, like the QR codes used for event tickets.
What Experts Are Saying
“AI-related cyber incidents will likely dominate headlines in 2025,” said Michael Bruemmer, VP of Global Data Breach Resolution at Experian. “Investments in cybersecurity will increase, but hackers are already using AI for phishing, password cracking, and creating deepfakes.”
Jim Steven, Head of Crisis and Data Response Services at Experian in the UK, added, “We’ll see more sophisticated ransomware attacks using AI, as well as scammers using personal data to ruin reputations.”
Final Thoughts
Cybercrime is evolving fast, and teens are playing a bigger role than ever. Stay informed and cautious—the digital world is changing, and so are the risks.
If you want to read more, head off to https://www.helpnetsecurity.com/2024/12/06/ai-cyber-incidents/ for more!
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