Shadows in the Code: Exploring AI's Influence on Cybercrime in the Digital Nexus

• In Event: Unveiling the Digital Underworld: Exploring Identity Theft, Social Media Privacy Paradox, and AI's Influence on Cybercrime

Abstract

The advent of large language models (LLMs) and artificial intelligence (AI) has brought
unprecedented opportunities for innovation and advancement in various fields. However,
alongside these opportunities, there has been a parallel rise in their exploitation by
cybercriminals, particularly in the realms of the dark web and clear web accessed via TOR (The
Onion Router). This paper investigates the utilization of LLMs and AI, such as ChatGPT and
WormGPT, by cybercriminals to perpetrate a spectrum of cybercrimes, including ransomware
attacks, phishing schemes, malware propagation, jailbreaks, and more. Through an analysis of patterns and prompts utilized by cybercriminals in the aid of cybercrime, this research seeks to shed light on the evolving tactics and strategies employed in these illicit activities. By examining how LLMs and AI are leveraged within the context of cybercrime, this paper aims to provide insights into the modus operandi of cybercriminals operating in the dark web and clear web environments. Furthermore, it aims to identify strategic preventable measures to mitigate and counteract these nefarious activities. By meticulously examining the intersection of AI, LLMs, and cybercrime, this study enriches the ongoing discourse on cybersecurity, offering tangible insights. These findings empower policymakers, law enforcement entities, and cybersecurity practitioners to formulate resilient strategies and defenses against evolving cyber threats.

Authors

• Sanaika Nityananda Shetty, Boston University

• Kyung-Shick Choi, Boston University