A new report from technology giant Microsoft (MSFT) claims that Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea are each using artificial intelligence (AI) to escalate their cyberattacks on the U.S.
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In July of this year, Microsoft identified more than 200 instances of foreign governments using AI to create fake content online, more than double the number from a year earlier and more than 10 times the number seen in 2023.
The findings, published in Microsoft’s annual digital threats report, show how foreign nations are adopting innovative technologies to weaponize the internet and use it as a tool for espionage, deception, and disinformation.
America’s Adversaries
America’s adversaries, as well as organized crime, gangs and hackers, are employing AI to improve their cyberattacks, spread disinformation, and penetrate sensitive systems both in the public and private sectors, says Microsoft.
Cyber operations undertaken by foreign governments aim to obtain classified information, undermine supply chains, disrupt public services, and spread disinformation. Cyber criminals, on the other hand, seek to steal corporate secrets or use ransomware to extort payments from companies.
The U.S. is the top target for cyberattacks worldwide, with criminals and foreign adversaries targeting companies, governments and organizations in America more than any other country. Israel and Ukraine were the second and third most popular targets for cyberattacks, said Microsoft.
Is MSFT Stock a Buy?
Microsoft’s stock has a consensus Strong Buy rating among 35 Wall Street analysts. That rating is based on 34 Buy and one Hold recommendation issued in the last three months. The average price target on MSFT stock of $628.05 implies 22.07% upside from current levels.
