FBI Warns Congress: Chinese Hackers Have Penetrated Infrastructure
The threat of “cyber-physical attacks” is growing, according to experts including the FBI, who have issued warnings. This type of attack involves hackers using artificial intelligence (AI) to target and disrupt critical infrastructure such as power plants, transportation systems, and electrical grids.
According to a report by CNBC, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has issued a warning to Congress, stating that Chinese hackers have deeply infiltrated US network infrastructure. FBI Director Christopher Wray has stated that these digital intruders, supported by the Chinese government, are targeting critical US assets, including water treatment facilities, electrical grids, and transportation systems.
Stuart Madnick, a senior professor at MIT, has conducted extensive research on the intersection of digital and physical realms. With the widespread adoption of generative AI technology, Madnick and his team have simulated network attacks with alarming results, including explosions triggered by hacking into computer control systems. Upgrading conventional cyber attacks can cause destruction and casualties.
Madnick emphasizes the catastrophic effects these attacks can have. He points out that after causing physical damage to infrastructure, the challenges of extended downtime and recovery are exacerbated, especially when specialized parts are involved. The emergence of AI enhances the capability to execute such destructive attacks, relying on a combination of technical skills, opportunity, and motivation.
There are differing views among cybersecurity experts regarding AI-driven cyber-physical attacks. Tim Chase, the Chief Information Security Officer at Lacework, highlights vulnerabilities in systems that use programmable logic controllers (PLCs), which could be exploited by hackers using AI-generated code. “Artificial intelligence makes it easier for individuals lacking skills and patience to attack industrial control systems.”
At the same time, cybersecurity expert Sivan Tehila acknowledges the threat posed by AI-driven cyber attacks but also points out that AI can strengthen network defenses.
Michael Kenney, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh, believes that cybercriminals may not necessarily want to cause significant damage to network infrastructure because they coexist in an interdependent relationship.
Experts believe that while AI has become a powerful weapon for criminals, it also provides unprecedented opportunities for defense, enhancing our ability to detect, analyze, and respond to threats in real-time. The evolution of cyber-physical threats urgently requires proactive and innovative approaches to protect our digital and physical worlds from potential AI-driven aggression.
“Cyber-physical attacks” pose further threats to the traditional world, while the Web3 world, filled with digital economy elements such as digital currencies, digital infrastructure, and digital identities, has long suffered economic losses due to high automation and code controllability. In the era of AI, it will inevitably face new threats.
(Further reading: UN Report: North Korea Raises $3 Billion for Nuclear Development Through Hacking Cryptocurrencies)
FBI
Infrastructure
Cyber-Physical Attacks