Lately, Microsoft has strongly advised users of Windows and Mac to steer clear of the Quick Assist app due to security issues. According to their findings, cybercriminals are using artificial intelligence tactics to hack into devices and steal personal information (as reported by Forbes).
Artificial intelligence has quickly become a critical tool in various fields, from healthcare to education, and beyond. However, this widespread use comes with significant security risks, especially since some individuals with malicious intent have figured out how to exploit it.
For a bit of background, Quick Assist is designed to allow remote access to computers running on Windows or macOS. Microsoft has pointed out that scammers frequently impersonate IT professionals from well-known brands, using manipulative tactics to trick people into trusting them.
These scammers frequently employ programs like Quick Assist to gain control of unsuspecting users’ devices. Microsoft highlighted that AI technologies make these scams more sophisticated and cheaper to execute, which helps cybercriminals produce convincing fake content to aid their attacks. Unsurprisingly, this makes it even harder for less tech-savvy individuals to distinguish between a real problem and a scam.
Among their strategies, these attackers use “scareware”—pop-up alerts or images that mimic real system errors to create a sense of urgency. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has warned that unsolicited calls claiming to offer tech support are frequently scams.
Both Microsoft and Google have clearly stated they don’t contact users directly about issues, nor do they ask for assistance in solving them. “Legitimate companies won’t reach out to individuals unsolicited,” adds the FBI.
Users should be cautious and avoid downloading programs allowing external device control. If support is necessary, they should initiate communication through official channels or directly from their operating system, while also relying on trusted internal tools like Remote Help for company IT support.
Even though the Quick Assist app itself hasn’t fallen victim to AI-driven scams, its misuse poses a significant challenge for Microsoft, with new security threats they must address.