Get ready for AI-Generated Spam personalized to your interests

In recent years, advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have enabled machines to learn and predict human behavior. And while this technology has considerable potential for positive applications, it also poses significant risks. One of the most pressing concerns is the potential use of AI in generating personalized spam messages that target individuals with persuasive messages designed to trick them into clicking links, purchasing products, or sharing personal information.

As John Licato writes in The Conversation, AI-driven spam messaging is becoming more sophisticated, allowing spammers to tailor their messages to the interests of individual users. By using generative large language models (LLMs), such as those made famous by the chatbot ChatGPT, spammers can train AI to predict with a high degree of accuracy what individuals will say next, and base spam messages around this information.

The problem with this kind of spam is that, unlike traditional unsolicited commercial emails, AI-generated spam is highly personalized and almost impossible to identify as spam. As Licato notes, “if spammers make it past initial filters and get you to read an email, click a link or even engage in conversation, their ability to apply customized persuasion increases dramatically.”

But AI isn’t just useful for spammers. As spam messages become more sophisticated, so too do spam filters. AI-driven spam filters can help prevent unwanted emails by identifying and blocking spam before it can reach users’ inboxes. These filters may even allow “wanted” spam, such as marketing emails that users have explicitly signed up for, to get through.

Despite the potential dangers posed by AI-generated spam, it’s important to remember that AI is a tool that can be used for good or bad purposes. As Licato notes, AI can help us better understand how bad actors might exploit human weaknesses and come up with ways to counter such activities. But as with any new technology, it’s important to be aware of its potential dangers and work to mitigate them.

In the end, it’s likely that AI-driven spam messages will become more prevalent in the coming years. But by staying informed and being vigilant, users can protect themselves from falling victim to these deceptive messages. As AI continues to evolve, it’s important that we focus on leveraging its power for positive purposes rather than allowing it to be used to harm or deceive others.