AI seen boosting hacking value by 71%, says Bugcrowd

A report by Bugcrowd indicates that a significant majority of hackers believe artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have increased the value of hacking activities over the past year.

According to the "Inside the Mind of a Hacker 2024" report, published by Bugcrowd, 71% of hackers now see AI as enhancing the value of hacking, a substantial increase from only 21% the previous year. The report, which surveyed 1,300 ethical hackers and security researchers, reveals that 77% of hackers are employing generative AI tools, reflecting a 13% rise from 2023.

The report notes that while AI technologies are being widely adopted within the hacking community, these tools present both opportunities and risks. Significantly, 93% of hackers observed that AI tools used by companies are creating new avenues for attacks. Furthermore, 82% of hackers say the AI threat landscape is evolving rapidly, posing challenges to maintaining effective cybersecurity measures.

Dave Gerry, Chief Executive Officer of Bugcrowd, commented on the findings, stating, "There is no denying that AI remains a strong force within the hacking community, changing the very strategies hackers are using to find and report vulnerabilities. Bugcrowd is in a privileged position to work with a creative, forward-thinking community that thrives on the cutting edge of cybersecurity. Celebrating hackers is part of the core of what we do at Bugcrowd, and these insights can help businesses understand the unique value this community brings to fighting against today's AI-driven cyberattacks."

Despite the increase in AI-driven hacking, the report reiterates that AI technologies still have limitations compared to human capabilities. Only 22% of hackers believe that AI technologies can outperform human hackers, and 30% think AI can replicate human creativity, with these figures remaining consistent with last year's survey.

The report also highlights the growing trend of hardware hacking, with 81% of hardware hackers discovering new vulnerabilities in the past year. Furthermore, 83% expressed confidence in hacking AI-powered hardware and software systems. Michael Skelton, Vice President of Security Operations at Bugcrowd, explained, "Hardware hacking, or the exploitation of vulnerabilities in the physical components of electronic devices, was once considered a specialized field. However, the proliferation of inexpensive, vulnerable smart devices has increased interest in hardware hacking among both ethical hackers and cybercriminals."

In terms of demographics, the report provides insights into the careers of hackers, with 88% of respondents aged between 18 and 34, and 67% either hacking full-time or aiming to pursue it as a career. Although 73% hold a college degree or higher, only 29% acquired their hacking skills through formal education, with most learning through online resources, self-study, and trial and error.

The survey reflects responses from hackers in 85 countries, such as the United States, India, United Kingdom, and Australia, offering a broad perspective on trends affecting the global hacking community.