Microsoft has published the Microsoft Digital Defense Report 2024. The 114-page document shows a significant increase in the number of cyber attacks of various types over the past year. It is especially emphasized that attackers are receiving more and more technical resources, including those related to artificial intelligence.
Image source: FlyD/Unsplash
According to the report, Windows users are exposed to more than 600 million cyberattacks every day. The attacks use ransomware, phishing (deception through fake websites) and other sophisticated forms of identity theft, PCWorld explains. Basically, hackers are trying to get their hands on passwords.
Microsoft experts note that cybercriminals are actively using the latest technologies, including tools based on artificial intelligence (AI). The technology helps attackers create fake images, videos and audio recordings. Artificial intelligence is also used to mass create “perfect” resumes in order to penetrate the internal systems of companies through fake job applications. In addition, it turned out that hackers can use AI platforms directly for attacks. For example, through false request injection (XPIA), they can send fake commands and gain control of the victim’s computer.
It’s not just ordinary users who are at risk. Cyberattacks are increasingly being directed at government organizations and companies. Thus, during the current year, the US healthcare system was subject to 389 successful cyber attacks, which led to network failures, various systems and delays in carrying out important medical procedures.
Many of these attacks, as the report highlights, are not just “ordinary” cybercriminals. State actors are increasingly involved in this. Microsoft, among other countries, names China as one of the main sources of such attacks, especially in the context of interference in election campaigns before the US presidential election. At the same time, the line between ordinary cybercriminals and hackers working for states is becoming increasingly blurred.
Microsoft has reportedly prevented about 1.25 million distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks this year, a fourfold increase from last year.