INTERPOL Warns AI is Accelerating Cyber Threats
According to INTERPOL, artificial intelligence is amplifying existing cyber threats by increasing their speed and scale rather than creating entirely new forms of crime. Bjorn R. Watne, global chief information security officer at INTERPOL, explained that scam operators are using AI for simultaneous targeting across multiple victims while leveraging improved translation tools and digital identities to make fraudulent interactions more convincing. Watne advised companies to identify their most critical assets—referred to as 'crown jewels'—and tailor cyber defenses based on specific threats. He emphasized the importance of threat intelligence in understanding adversaries’ tactics, noting that not all businesses need universal protection if they are not being targeted by advanced persistent threats. Additionally, he highlighted a disconnect between senior management and cybersecurity strategy across many industries. Watne also expressed concerns about agentic AI systems—those capable of acting on users' behalf—which could lead to real-world consequences beyond misinformation. He warned that as these systems become more integrated into devices like self-driving cars, the trust people place in technology may outpace their awareness of associated risks.
Topics: Artificial Intelligence Cybercrime INTERPOL Security Strategy