More than 92,000 cyberattacks disguised as AI applications were detected globally in the first five months of 2026, as hackers increasingly exploit the popularity of tools such as ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini.
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| Security experts warn that fake AI applications are becoming one of the fastest-growing cyber threats as criminals capitalize on surging demand for artificial intelligence services. Image: CH |
Tech Desk — June 7, 2026:
What looks like an AI assistant could actually be a gateway for cybercriminals.
As artificial intelligence continues to attract millions of users worldwide, hackers are finding new ways to exploit the technology's popularity. Instead of attacking systems directly, many are now disguising malware as trusted AI applications, hoping unsuspecting users will do the work for them.
The tactic is proving remarkably effective.
According to cybersecurity company Kaspersky, more than 92,000 malware attacks were detected worldwide between January and May that were disguised as AI tools and services. The numbers suggest that AI has quickly become one of the most attractive lures in the cybercrime landscape.
Much of the activity revolves around familiar names.
Fake versions of ChatGPT accounted for nearly half of all detected attacks. Claude and Gemini followed closely behind, showing how cybercriminals are leveraging some of the most recognized brands in artificial intelligence.
The approach relies heavily on trust.
When users see the name of a popular AI platform, they are often less suspicious. Many are eager to try new features or gain access to emerging tools, making them more likely to download software without carefully checking its source.
That moment of curiosity can come at a high cost.
Researchers identified more than 15,000 malware samples masquerading as AI software during the first months of the year. Hidden within these fake applications were banking trojans, spyware, exploits and malware downloaders capable of installing even more malicious programs.
In many cases, the damage begins quietly.
A user downloads what appears to be a legitimate AI application. The installation process looks normal. Nothing seems unusual. Behind the scenes, however, malware is being deployed, giving attackers access to personal data, passwords, financial information and system controls.
The growing popularity of new AI products is making the problem worse.
As fresh platforms enter the market and generate online buzz, users often rush to test them. Cybercriminals understand this behavior and move quickly to create convincing copies before people learn to distinguish genuine software from fake versions.
One recent campaign highlights just how sophisticated these operations have become.
Kaspersky researchers linked a malware campaign to the Silver Fox advanced persistent threat group. The attackers distributed counterfeit Claude applications for Windows, macOS and Linux, allowing them to target users across virtually every major desktop platform.
Once installed, the malware provided long-term access to compromised devices.
That kind of persistence is particularly worrying because it allows attackers to remain hidden for extended periods. During that time, they can collect information, monitor activity and potentially launch additional attacks.
The trend reflects a familiar pattern in the technology sector.
Whenever a new digital innovation captures public attention, criminals look for ways to exploit the excitement surrounding it. Artificial intelligence is now experiencing that reality on a massive scale.
The challenge is that AI tools are becoming part of everyday life.
Students use them for research. Professionals rely on them for productivity. Businesses are integrating them into workflows. The wider the adoption becomes, the larger the pool of potential targets grows.
For cybersecurity experts, the message is increasingly clear.
Users should only download AI software from verified sources and remain cautious of links, advertisements and unofficial websites promising exclusive access or premium features. A few extra seconds spent verifying a download could prevent a much bigger problem later.
Artificial intelligence may be transforming the digital world, but it is also creating fresh opportunities for cybercriminals. As AI adoption accelerates, staying informed and vigilant may become just as important as embracing the technology itself.