South Korea Warns of AI Usage in Banking Sector Cyberattacks
It has been stated that artificial intelligence technology may have been used in cyberattacks targeting the financial sector in South Korea, affecting more than 68,000 people.
South Korean government officials announced that there is evidence of artificial intelligence being used in recent cyberattacks targeting the country's financial sector and affecting more than seven institutions. A police investigation has been launched into the incident.
Investigation into Attacks on the Financial Sector
More than seven financial institutions and major banks in South Korea reported in the past week that customer data had been leaked. While the ability of artificial intelligence systems to find previously unknown software vulnerabilities has raised global concern, police authorities launched a prompt investigation.
Emphasis on Artificial Intelligence at the Cabinet Meeting
President Lee Jae Myung stated during Tuesday's cabinet meeting that artificial intelligence-based cyberattacks have caused public concern. Lee noted that artificial intelligence has reached a stage where even individuals without specialized skills can easily carry out cyberattacks.
Thousands of People and Customers Affected
According to data from the Financial Services Commission, more than 68,000 people were affected by the incident. Shinhan Bank, one of the targets of the attack, announced that information such as names, phone numbers, and annual incomes found in credit applications of approximately 25,000 customers was leaked.
Artex AI and Security Reviews
Government officials stated that there is a high probability that the Chinese-origin open-source security testing tool Artex AI system was used in the attacks. However, officials emphasized that it is impossible to determine the identity of the attackers using this data alone, as IP addresses can be used in multiple locations.
Similar Data Leaks in Japan
Along with the events in South Korea, at least three companies in Japan reported experiencing data leaks in recent days. While ten firms announced unauthorized access to their servers, car-sharing company Times Car announced that 6.6 million accounts were leaked.