Copilot and Hackers: Security Issues Noted
August 12, 2024
This essay is the work of a dinobaby. Unlike some folks, no smart software improved my native ineptness.
The online publication Cybernews ran a story I found interesting. It title suggests something about Black Hat USA 2024 attendees I have not considered. Here’s the headline:
Black Hat USA 2024: : Microsoft’s Copilot Is Freaking Some Researchers Out
Wow. Hackers (black, gray, white, and multi-hued) are “freaking out.” As defined by the estimable Urban Dictionary, “freaking” means:
Obscene dancing which simulates sex by the grinding the of the genitalia with suggestive sounds/movements. often done to pop or hip hop or rap music
No kidding? At Black Hat USA 2024?
Thanks, Microsoft Copilot. Freak out! Oh, y0ur dance moves are good enough.
The article reports:
Despite Microsoft’s claims, cybersecurity researcher Michael Bargury demonstrated how Copilot Studio, which allows companies to build their own AI assistant, can be easily abused to exfiltrate sensitive enterprise data. We also met with Bargury during the Black Hat conference to learn more. “Microsoft is trying, but if we are honest here, we don’t know how to build secure AI applications,” he said. His view is that Microsoft will fix vulnerabilities and bugs as they arise, letting companies using their products do so at their own risk.
Wait. I thought Microsoft has tied cash to security work. I thought security was Job #1 at the company which recently accursed Delta Airlines of using outdated technology and failing its customers. Is that the Microsoft that Mr. Bargury is suggesting has zero clue how to make smart software secure?
With MSFT Copilot turning up in places that surprise me, perhaps the Microsoft great AI push is creating more problems. The SolarWinds glitch was exciting for some, but if Mr. Bargury is correct, cyber security life will be more and more interesting.
Stephen E Arnold, August 12, 2024
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