New Delhi, Feb 19 (NationPress) The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has ushered in significant alterations in global operations. Although AI has proven beneficial across numerous sectors, it also presents challenges that criminals and terrorists exploit. Security agencies have noted that the surge in cybercrimes is predominantly driven by AI, prompting India to launch a robust digital counteroffensive against such activities.

Statistics reveal that organizations in India endure approximately 3,100 cyber attacks weekly. Alarmingly, cybercriminals are increasingly leveraging AI to execute these attacks, particularly targeting the government and educational sectors. The education sector is especially susceptible due to inadequate cybersecurity measures, while the government is a prime target due to its repository of sensitive citizen information.

Authorities assert that cyber crime and cross-border terrorism pose substantial threats to national security. Terrorists are using AI to produce propaganda materials, including videos.

On the flip side, cybercriminals utilize AI to swiftly identify system vulnerabilities, allowing them to exploit these weaknesses effortlessly.

Moreover, they are capable of launching simultaneous attacks on various organizations using this technology. AI also facilitates the automation of phishing campaigns and credential harvesting. Furthermore, these actors generate highly persuasive content to amplify their propaganda on social media platforms.

An official from the Intelligence Bureau indicated that the ISI’s dedicated cybercrime desk is misappropriating this technology to craft content intended to incite tensions within India. This represents a significant shift, and Indian agencies have extensive work ahead to address this issue.

The ISI has identified individuals in India tasked with creating such content, proliferating it across social media. Posts related to groups such as Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and Jaish-e-Mohammad are circulating widely, showcasing a notable usage of AI.

Experts in cybercrime suggest that Indian agencies have made strides in countering this menace. Nevertheless, the rapid content generation and delivery enabled by AI often makes it challenging to maintain pace.

Another official highlighted that the use of AI has accelerated cyber attacks, rendering them more challenging to detect. There is an urgent need for a substantial shift in strategies to address this emerging problem. More frequent security audits and training in AI-based threat detection are essential, not only for government entities but also for organizations vulnerable to cyber threats.

Additionally, it has been discovered that cybercriminals employ AI for social engineering purposes. They gather and analyze personal data available on social media, using AI to forecast victims' behavior and tailor scams accordingly. Victims are often lured with promises of high-paying jobs, ultimately leading to scams involving cryptocurrency investments.

The road ahead is daunting, as noted by an official. The year 2025 has already been challenging, with an estimated financial loss of Rs 20,000 crore attributed to cybercrime. Significant incidents include AI-driven phishing, digital arrests, and investment frauds. Cybersecurity officials have also observed a rise in AI utilization for deepfakes and social engineering.

India has initiated a comprehensive, multi-layered AI-driven institutional approach to tackle the escalating number of such incidents. A cybersecurity official stated that India's most significant transition has been from reactive to proactive AI-based defenses aimed at combating challenges like deepfakes, financial frauds, and AI-driven phishing attacks.