UK Warns of AI-Powered Ransomware Attack on Critical Infrastructure by 2028

The UK's National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) warned that a ransomware attack involving AI-powered malware is 'highly likely' by 2028. The NCSC's annual State of the Cyber Nation report indicates that the use of AI by hostile actors will likely enhance the scale and efficiency of cyber operations, including ransomware and social engineering, within the next two years. NCSC chief executive Richard Horne stated that the threat arises from existing vulnerabilities rather than new attack methods. He emphasized the need for organizations to invest in technology and treat the government's Cyber Essentials certification as a starting point for security. The UK government recently allocated 60 million pounds for the first phase of a national Cyber Shield and 70 million pounds for a new National Exposure and Real-Time Vulnerability Centre. Additionally, an AI Cyber Security Centre of Excellence will be established in Manchester. The warning follows evidence of cybercriminals using AI to exploit vulnerabilities, with a report indicating that most AI usage in cybercrime is currently for spam and phishing.

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