Increased Use of AI Led to Increase in Cybercrime

Abstract

This research analyzes the paradoxical relationship between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital security, focusing on its escalating misuse for criminal purposes. As AI technologies become more sophisticated and accessible, they are being co-opted to power advanced cyber threats. These include highly convincing phishing campaigns, malicious deepfakes, adaptive malware, and autonomous botnets, all of which present significant detection and mitigation challenges. This paper argues that the velocity of AI advancement, coupled with opaque algorithms and insufficient regulatory frameworks, creates a critical security gap. It concludes by advocating for the immediate development of robust ethical standards, proactive policy interventions, and cross-sector collaboration between public institutions, private industry, and researchers to safeguard against the weaponization of AI.