A new tool, CAIRN, has flagged malware that uses AI to decide its next move, much like a cyberpunk novel come to life. This autonomous malware, dubbed CLOSEDQUORUM, consults a panel of large language models for every step. Researchers hope it will help track and understand these AI-integrated threats, but for now, it’s a rare sight.
While still largely experimental, CAIRN has identified about 20 examples of AI-integrated malware. This suggests the landscape is more complex than previously thought, with malware becoming smarter and harder to catch.
Cisco Talos researchers found that CLOSEDQUORUM is designed to steal login credentials and cryptocurrency. It communicates with AI services to make decisions, making it nearly impossible to predict its next move. This raises questions about the future of cybersecurity as AI becomes more embedded in hacking tools.
“Initially, everyone saw AI as a productivity tool, right?” said Matt Olney. “Now it’s operationalized, allowing attackers to run more campaigns and handle more computers.”
The emergence of AI-integrated malware marks a new era in cybersecurity, one where the line between human and machine is increasingly blurred. As CAIRN continues to evolve, the next version of malware might just be the ultimate AI strategist.
