This Week in Cyber: AI Tools Empower Hackers to Go Global

The world of cybersecurity is buzzing with stories that weave together the threads of innovation, danger, and the ongoing battle for safety in the digital realm. While AI propels hackers into new heights of efficiency, it also raises alarms for businesses that rely on vulnerable technologies. From critical vulnerabilities in widely-used industrial systems to a massive law enforcement crackdown on cybercrime, the landscape is shifting rapidly. It’s a stark reminder that while technology evolves, so do the threats against it.

This week, we saw the alarming rise of AI-assisted hacking. A group of cybercriminals exploited AI tools to access more than 600 FortiGate devices, highlighting a new era where technology can be both a shield and a sword. For businesses, this is a wake-up call to reassess their security measures, especially if they use these devices. Meanwhile, the good news? Authorities are taking action against cybercriminals, with 651 arrests made in a recent crackdown across Africa, showing that the fight against cybercrime is very much alive.

The Big Stories

  • AI Tools Helping Hackers Break Into 600+ Network Devices Worldwide - Cybercriminals used AI to hack over 600 FortiGate devices across 55 countries. If your business relies on these devices, verify they're secure. Read more

  • Warning: Critical Security Holes Found in Honeywell CCTV and Other Industrial Systems - Serious flaws in Honeywell cameras could let attackers take control remotely. Businesses using these systems must patch vulnerabilities immediately. Read more

  • Global Cybercrime Bust: 651 Arrested in African Online Scam Crackdown - An international operation led to 651 arrests and the recovery of over $4.3 million from cybercriminals. Stay vigilant; the threat remains. Read more

  • Critical Flaws in Visual Studio Code Extensions Put Millions at Risk - Vulnerabilities in popular coding extensions could expose sensitive files. Developers should update or disable these extensions until patched. Read more

  • Major Supply Chain Attack Sneaks Malware into AI Coding Assistant - A supply chain attack compromised a popular AI tool, infecting developer systems with malware. Always monitor your software sources! Read more

Quick Hits by Category

Security Watch

  • New Android Malware Uses AI Chatbots to Stay Hidden - PromptSpy exploits AI to block removal attempts and steal data. Read more

  • Microsoft Warns of AI Chatbots Being Manipulated by Attackers - Hackers are tricking AI chatbots into providing harmful advice. Read more

Privacy Pulse

  • Phony Crypto Scam Uses AI-Powered Chatbot to Trick Investors - A scam site lured victims using an AI chatbot. Read more

  • More Than 40% of South Africans Fell for Scams in 2025 - Nearly half of South Africans experienced scams last year. Read more

Compliance Corner

  • Study Finds Weak Spots in Top Cloud Password Managers - Flaws in recovery processes could allow hackers to access your passwords. Read more

  • ISO 27001 vs SOC 2 Certification: What’s the Difference? - A clear comparison to help you choose the right security certification. Read more

The Bottom Line

This week reminded us that cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and businesses must stay proactive. If you do one thing this week, review your security measures to ensure they are up to date and robust. The future may be uncertain, but with vigilance and resilience, we can navigate these challenges together.

Blog, SecurityLawton Brownsecurity, it compliance, it security