Artificial intelligence is transforming how businesses operate — but not just in good ways. As new AI tools hit the market, cybercriminals are learning to use them, too.
From deepfake Zoom calls to near-perfect phishing emails, AI is making it easier for bad actors to manipulate, deceive, and attack businesses — especially small to mid-sized firms in Metro Atlanta without dedicated security teams.
Here’s what you need to know about AI threats — and how to stay ahead of them.
Deepfake Danger: Don’t Trust Every Face on Zoom
AI-generated deepfakes are now so realistic that employees may not recognize a scam in progress. In one recent case, a cryptocurrency employee joined a video call with what appeared to be their leadership team. The “executives” — all deepfakes — instructed the employee to download a fake Zoom extension, allowing attackers to infiltrate the company’s systems.
What to watch for:
- Facial glitches or awkward eye movement
- Unusual lighting or background inconsistencies
- Requests that bypass standard protocols
Tip: Always verify sensitive requests through a second method — a phone call, secure chat, or in-person check-in.
📧 AI-Enhanced Phishing Emails: Scarier Than Ever
Phishing has always been a top cyber threat, but AI has made it harder to spot. Forget broken grammar or spelling errors — now attackers use ChatGPT-style tools to write clean, polished, and personalized messages that are tough to flag.
Some phishing kits even auto-translate emails into multiple languages, allowing hackers to scale attacks against businesses of any size.
Best defenses:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Even if a password is compromised, MFA blocks unauthorized access.
- Cybersecurity Awareness Training: Teach your team how to recognize red flags beyond bad grammar — like urgency, unusual requests, or suspicious links.
🧟 Fake AI Tools: Malware Masquerading as Innovation
Cybercriminals are leveraging the AI trend to trick users into downloading malware. These fake AI tools or “cracked” software promise productivity boosts but deliver malicious code instead.
For example, TikTok videos recently circulated offering illegal ways to install tools like ChatGPT using command-line shortcuts. In reality, they were lures for malware.
Your best protection: Only use AI tools vetted and approved by your IT team or Managed Service Provider (MSP). If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
👻 How to Defend Your Business from AI-Driven Cyber Threats
You don’t need to be a cybersecurity expert to protect your business — you just need the right partner and plan.
- Verify identities — even in video calls
- Implement MFA across all systems
- Update security software regularly
- Train your staff — early and often
- Only download apps and tools from trusted sources
Our team at Custom Technologies helps Metro Atlanta businesses build smart, proactive defenses against emerging threats — including those driven by AI.
🔐 Ready to Get Ahead of AI Threats?
Don’t let cybercriminals use cutting-edge tools against your business. Schedule your FREE Discovery Call and we’ll show you how to safeguard your network, team, and reputation — no jargon, no pressure.
📞 Call us at 770-792-6700
🔗 Schedule Your Free Discovery Call Now
Let us manage your network so you can manage your business.
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a deepfake and how does it affect my business?
A deepfake is a video or audio clip generated by AI to imitate real people. Cybercriminals use them to impersonate executives or clients during meetings to trick employees into taking harmful actions.
How can my business spot AI-powered phishing emails?
Look for urgency, unexpected requests, unfamiliar sender addresses, and odd timing. Use email filtering, spam detection tools, and employee training to reduce risk.
Are AI tools safe to use in business?
Yes — but only when they come from verified sources. Avoid downloading AI software from third-party sites or social media posts that promise “cracked” or free versions.
What industries in Metro Atlanta are most vulnerable to AI cyberattacks?
Businesses in finance, legal, healthcare, real estate, and professional services are prime targets due to the sensitive data they handle and often limited in-house IT support.
How can an MSP help protect my business from AI threats?
An MSP like Custom Technologies provides advanced threat monitoring, staff training, endpoint protection, secure cloud management, and real-time support tailored for small to mid-sized businesses.
