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Protecting AI Systems from Hackers: Safeguarding Your Personal and Business Devices

30 March, 2021

The mere mention of hackers can instill fear in anyone who owns an internet-enabled device, and for valid reasons. However, it’s important to note that hackers pose a significant threat not only to business computers, desktops, laptops, and tablets but also to your AI devices. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly prevalent, this raises concerns about security for individuals and businesses alike.

To address these concerns, it is essential to understand how hackers can target your artificial intelligence systems and the measures you can take to protect yourself. As your trusted managed service provider, we are here to offer the support you need to ensure your safety and the security of your business or family from the dangers posed by hackers.

Can Hackers Access Artificial Intelligence Systems?

Can hackers gain access to your AI systems? Unfortunately, the answer is yes, and this occurrence is becoming more common. Therefore, it is vital for those implementing artificial intelligence systems to be aware of protective measures that make it more challenging for hackers to infiltrate.

The Threat Posed by AI Hackers to Your Devices

At first glance, you may underestimate the threat professional hackers pose to your personal or business computers, desktops, laptops, and tablets. However, it is crucial never to underestimate these threats, as hackers gaining access to your personal data can jeopardize your security, safety, and even your bank account.

Some ways in which hackers can pose a threat include:

  • Loss of personal data: Hackers target personal data such as names, addresses, telephone numbers, and emails, enabling them to engage in phishing scams or sell contact details to unauthorized buyers. Financial information, if compromised, can lead to unauthorized transactions or fraudulent purchases.
  • Business risks: If you run a small business, storing customer data puts you at risk. A hacker’s gaining access to this data can result in substantial fines. Data breaches have affected even major companies such as Adobe, Canva, eBay, LinkedIn, MySpace, Yahoo, and Marriott, with a staggering number of individuals worldwide having had their personal data compromised since 2000.

How Hackers Exploit AI Systems

Having established that hackers can access personal or business computers, it is crucial to understand how they accomplish this. There are various methods hackers employ to breach systems, depending on the type of AI being used.

Hackers may gain access to data through AI systems by:

  • Monitoring activities: Similar to personalized cookies on websites, hackers can monitor your activities through AI devices, such as Alexa or Siri. They may even access cameras connected to devices like Ring doorbells, compromising privacy and security within your home.
  • Exploiting weak passwords: Weak passwords provide an entry point for hackers. It is essential to use strong, complex passwords and avoid reusing them across multiple accounts to minimize the risk.

Protecting Yourself from AI Hackers

Given the seriousness of the threat posed by hackers, it is crucial to take preventive measures to safeguard your personal and business devices. Some tips for protecting yourself include:

  • Avoid sharing personal information: One of the most critical steps to stay safe from hackers is to never share personal information or passwords, regardless of who you think you are communicating with online. Avoid writing down passwords and keep them confidential.
  • Use complex passwords: Choose automatically generated passwords that have no connection to your personal life and memorize them. While challenging, it offers increased security.
  • Disable Bluetooth and internet connectivity when not in use: To prevent hackers from exploiting these connections to gain access to your devices, it is recommended to turn off Bluetooth and internet connectivity when not actively using them.

Final Thoughts

Hackers present a significant challenge in our modern society, but with preventive measures, you can protect yourself from their threats. As AI and smart devices continue to proliferate, hackers find new avenues to infiltrate your personal life. Take every precaution to secure your accounts and data at every opportunity. For more guidance on how IT solutions can help protect your personal or business computers, contact us today.

30 March, 2021