AI is everywhere right now. It’s helping businesses write emails, speed up tasks, and even brainstorm ideas. But here’s the flip side: the same tools that help us can also help attackers.
That can feel a little spooky. But don’t panic—you don’t need to lose sleep over every headline about AI. Let’s shine a flashlight on the real threats small businesses should pay attention to, and how to keep them from sneaking into your workplace.
Doppelgängers in Your Video Calls: The Rise of Deepfakes
AI can now create shockingly realistic “deepfake” faces and voices. Attackers are using them in video meetings to trick people into downloading malicious software.
Imagine hopping on Zoom and thinking you’re talking to your CEO—except it’s not. A recent scam used deepfakes of company leaders to convince an employee to install a fake plugin, which gave attackers access to their systems.
How to protect yourself: If a meeting feels “off” (weird pauses, odd lighting, strange requests), hit pause and double-check through another channel. Better yet, work with a trusted outsourced IT provider in Delaware to set up verification processes.
Smarter Phishing Emails: Creepy Crawlies in Your Inbox
Phishing isn’t new, but AI makes those scam emails scarier. No more broken English or obvious typos—AI can make them look polished and professional.
Some attackers even use AI to translate phishing emails into different languages, scaling their scams across industries.
How to fight back:
- Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA) everywhere. Even if someone steals your password, they won’t have your phone.
- Keep up with security awareness training so your team knows the red flags—like fake urgency or links that don’t look quite right.
If your office is tired of sorting through suspicious emails and wondering how to stop phishing attacks, managed IT services in Wilmington, DE can give you the filters and training you need.
Fake AI Tools: Skeletons in Disguise
Attackers love to take advantage of hype. Right now, that means fake “AI tools” floating around online.
They might be called an “AI video generator” or a “ChatGPT crack,” but under the hood they’re just malware waiting to hijack your system.
How to stay safe: Never download cracked or unofficial software. Ask your IT team—or your outsourced IT provider in Delaware—to vet new tools before installing them. A few extra minutes of caution can save weeks of recovery later.
Keep the AI Ghosts Out of Your Business
Here’s the bottom line: yes, AI brings new risks, but you don’t have to face them alone. With the right partner, you can focus on running your business while we handle the scary stuff—deepfakes, phishing, malware, and everything in between.
Schedule a free discovery call today with Wilmington’s trusted IT support company near you. Let’s make sure AI works for your business, not against it.
