Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how Houston businesses operate bystreamlining processes, enhancing customer service, and driving innovation across industries from engineering to architecture. But as AI evolves, so do the threats that come with it. Unfortunately, cybercriminals have the same access to AI tools as the rest of us and they’re using them in increasingly deceptive ways.
Let’s pull back the curtain on a few of the scariest AI-driven threats haunting today’s digital landscape and how your business can stay protected.
Doppelgängers in Your Video Calls: Deepfakes Are Getting Real
Deepfake technology has become frighteningly convincing, and cybercriminals are exploiting it to impersonate executives, business partners, and even family members.
In one recent incident, an employee at a cryptocurrency firm joined a Zoom meeting with what appeared to be senior leadership only to discover later that every “participant” was an AI-generated deepfake. The scammers used this deception to trick the employee into downloading malware that opened the door to a serious data breach.
For Houston companies, especially those managing sensitive client data, deepfake scams pose a growing risk. Watch for subtle warning signs like unnatural facial movements, awkward silences, or strange lighting during video calls. When in doubt, verify through another channel before taking action.
Creepy Crawlies in Your Inbox: AI-Enhanced Phishing Attacks
Phishing emails have long been a problem but AI has taken them to the next level. The days of spotting obvious red flags like misspelled words or clumsy grammar are gone. Now, cybercriminals use AI tools to craft messages that sound perfectly legitimate, even mimicking a coworker’s tone or writing style.
These scams often aim to steal credentials or trick employees into transferring money. To make matters worse, cybercriminals are using AI to translate and customize their phishing campaigns for different audiences, expanding their reach worldwide.
Houston businesses can fight back by strengthening their defenses:
- Implement multifactor authentication (MFA) so stolen passwords aren’t enough to breach your systems.
- Invest in employee security training to help your team recognize subtle warning signs, like urgent requests for information or unexpected attachments.
Even with AI in the mix, awareness remains one of the most effective defenses against phishing.
Skeleton AI Tools: Malware Disguised as Innovation
AI is a buzzword and cybercriminals are exploiting that curiosity. Fake “AI tools” are popping up everywhere, promising to boost productivity or unlock hidden features. In reality, many of these downloads are packed with malware.
One case involved TikTok videos promoting “cracked” ChatGPT software that could be activated through a PowerShell command. The trick? Those downloads were actually part of a malware campaign designed to infect systems and steal data.
For Houston organizations eager to explore new AI tools, a good rule of thumb is don’t download anything that hasn’t been vetted. Partner with a trusted Managed IT Services Provider (MSP) to review potential software before installing it. Your MSP can test for security issues and ensure the tool aligns with your business’s cybersecurity policies.
Keep the AI Ghosts Out of Your Houston Business
AI threats are real but they don’t have to haunt your business. From deepfakes to phishing and fake AI apps, cybercriminals are getting smarter, but the right cybersecurity measures can keep your organization one step ahead.
At Alexaur Technology Services, we help Houston businesses embrace innovation without fear. Our proactive cybersecurity solutions, employee awareness training, and AI tool vetting services ensure that you can take advantage of the latest technologysafely and securely.
Don’t let digital “ghosts” spook your productivity.
Contact Alexaur Technology Services today to strengthen your defenses and keep your business protected in an AI-driven world.
Schedule your free discovery call today and let’s talk through how to protect your team from the scary side of AI ... before it becomes a real problem. CLICK HERE
