The National Telecom and Information Technology Security Board (NTISB) has released an urgent advisory regarding the use of VPNs, artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT-4, Gemini and other suspicious web browser extensions
The NTISB reports the emergence of a new series of cyber attacks, with hackers focusing on personal and sensitive data.
Browser extensions, widely employed by millions, have been recognised as a major vehicle for data theft.
Cybercriminals can use these extensions to obtain login credentials from online banking institutions and social networking sites like Facebook.
A total of 16 commonly used browser extensions, including AI-powered programs like ChatGPT-4 and Gemini for Chrome, have been flagged by the advisory as possibly dangerous. Unverified AI chatbots and free VPNs have also been flagged as malicious software.
The warning also notes that OpenAI‘s GPT-4 is being investigated for possible personal data theft using phishing techniques. It advises using licensed antivirus software, installing reputable extensions, and updating them frequently. Free extensions should be used with caution.
The NTISB emphasised that in order to safeguard their personal information, users need to be on the lookout and select alternatives to potentially dangerous extensions.
The advice also cautions that if precautions are not taken, hackers may use phishing operations and infected software to obtain private data.
