Chinese hackers integrate DeepSeek and open-source AI models into cyberattacks

Chinese state-affiliated cyber groups have more than doubled their cyberattacks against targets abroad after integrating DeepSeek and other open-source artificial intelligence models into their operations. According to Taiwanese research firm TeamT5, these hackers are using AI to automate mundane tasks and develop advanced malicious software. While identifying specific models is difficult, DeepSeek's offerings are highly popular among Chinese hackers due to their high performance and customization capabilities.

Chinese state-affiliated hackers

• ▪Chinese state-affiliated cyber groups more than doubled their cyberattacks after delegating mundane tasks to artificial intelligence and using it to develop advanced malicious software, according to Taiwanese research firm TeamT5
• ▪Chinese hackers are ramping up cyberattacks against targets abroad after integrating DeepSeek and other open-source artificial intelligence models into their operations

DeepSeek AI model usage

• ▪DeepSeek's artificial intelligence offerings are popular with Chinese hackers due to the models' high performance and customization capabilities
• ▪Researchers from Taiwanese firm TeamT5 stated that while identifying the specific artificial intelligence model used in cyberattacks is not always possible, DeepSeek's tools are widely favored by Chinese hackers

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