Australia warns AI is accelerating cyber threats

Australia’s cyber security agency says artificial intelligence is helping criminals and state-backed hackers find and exploit software vulnerabilities faster, while warning that its expanding use is increasing risks to government, businesses and critical infrastructure. The Australian Signals Directorate issued more than 4,400 warnings about potentially malicious activity in the 2025-26 financial year, an 80% rise from the previous year, according to its annual cyber threat report. The figure counts warnings, not attacks confirmed to have been caused by AI. The directorate said AI can help malicious actors identify weaknesses and conduct attacks at greater speed and scale. It also described potential defensive uses, including helping security teams detect threats, identify vulnerabilities and strengthen network defences. The agency used some AI tools in compiling its report. The report said state-sponsored actors continued to target Australian organisations to obtain sensitive or non-public information. The activity extends beyond government systems to critical infrastructure, private businesses and individuals, the directorate said. It named China, Russia and North Korea...