DeepSeek Under Attack
AI platform DeepSeek has confirmed a large-scale malicious attack on its services, disrupting operations and leading to temporary limitations on new user registrations. Despite the attack, existing users can still access the platform, and some new registrations are reportedly going through.
A notice on DeepSeek’s website states:
“Due to large-scale malicious attacks on DeepSeek’s services, registration may be busy. Please wait and try again. Registered users can log in normally. Thank you for your understanding and support.”
Additionally, DeepSeek’s status page indicates ongoing performance degradation. However, the Chinese startup has not provided further details on the nature of the attack, its impact on user data, or potential security risks.
The cyberattack comes at a critical time, as DeepSeek has skyrocketed in popularity, surpassing competitors like ChatGPT on Apple’s App Store and Google Play. The platform also experienced service outages earlier this week, adding to concerns about its stability and security.
Potential Security Risks of AI Platforms
The attack on DeepSeek is not an isolated event. AI platforms and chatbots are becoming prime targets for cybercriminals due to their vast user base and access to sensitive data. Some of the most pressing security risks include:
- Data Exposure: Many AI platforms require users to provide personal details, such as names, email addresses, and preferences, which could be compromised in a breach.
- Jailbreak Exploits: Researchers have demonstrated that some AI models can be manipulated to generate malicious content, such as ransomware development guides or toxic chemical instructions.
- Phishing and Social Engineering Attacks: Cybercriminals can use AI-generated responses to craft highly convincing phishing emails or scams.
- API Vulnerabilities: Hackers may exploit APIs that integrate AI models with other services, potentially exposing sensitive user data.
- Malware Development: Threat actors can use AI platforms to automate the creation of harmful software, making cyberattacks more efficient and widespread.
How to Protect Yourself When Using AI Platforms
While securing AI platforms is primarily the responsibility of developers, users can take several steps to safeguard their data and minimize risk:
1. Limit Personal Information Sharing
Only provide the bare minimum of personal data required to use an AI service. Avoid linking sensitive accounts, such as primary email addresses or financial accounts, to AI platforms.
2. Strengthen Your Passwords
Ensure that each AI-related account has a unique, strong password. Using a password manager can help keep credentials secure and prevent unauthorized access.
3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Whenever possible, enable MFA to add an extra layer of protection. Even if your password is compromised, MFA makes it significantly harder for hackers to gain access.
4. Watch Out for Phishing Attempts
Be cautious of messages claiming to be from AI platforms—especially those urging you to click links or share personal information. Verify messages before taking any action.
5. Regularly Monitor Your Accounts
Check your AI-related accounts for any suspicious activity, such as unauthorized logins or changes in settings. Set up alerts to receive notifications for unusual behavior.
6. Stay Updated on Security Practices
Follow announcements from AI platform developers and cybersecurity researchers to stay informed about emerging threats and best practices for data protection.
7. Understand the Platform’s Privacy Policies
Review the privacy policies of AI platforms before signing up. Ensure they follow industry standards for encryption, data handling, and storage.
8. Avoid Jailbreaking or Exploiting AI Models
Trying to bypass AI model restrictions for unauthorized purposes can expose users to additional security risks. Additionally, such activities may violate terms of service agreements.
9. Use Reputable Security Software
Install and maintain up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software to protect against potential threats that may arise when interacting with AI-driven applications.
Final Thoughts
As these technologies continue to evolve, so do the threats that target them. By staying informed and following best cybersecurity practices, users can reduce their risk and help ensure safer interactions with AI-powered tools.
As AI becomes more integrated into daily life, security should remain a top priority—not just for developers but for every individual using these platforms.
How Can Netizen Help?
Netizen ensures that security gets built-in and not bolted-on. Providing advanced solutions to protect critical IT infrastructure such as the popular “CISO-as-a-Service” wherein companies can leverage the expertise of executive-level cybersecurity professionals without having to bear the cost of employing them full time.
We also offer compliance support, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and more security-related services for businesses of any size and type.
Additionally, Netizen offers an automated and affordable assessment tool that continuously scans systems, websites, applications, and networks to uncover issues. Vulnerability data is then securely analyzed and presented through an easy-to-interpret dashboard to yield actionable risk and compliance information for audiences ranging from IT professionals to executive managers.
Netizen is a CMMI V2.0 Level 3, ISO 9001:2015, and ISO 27001:2013 (Information Security Management) certified company. We are a proud Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor for hiring and retention of military veterans.
