UK National Cyber Security Centre head, warns of state-backed cyber threats
The UK government has confirmed that Iranian-linked hackers targeted a small-scale energy generator last month. The incident did not threaten the wider energy system, and authorities have issued guidance to power firms while expanding cyber resilience plans, including an AI-powered shield for critical infrastructure.
Signatories from OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Microsoft and other leaders have warned there is a limited window to strengthen cyber-defences against AI-powered attacks. The open letter urges coordinated government action, funding for cyber defence, and wider access to capable defensive AI for critical infrastructure, as attacks on hospitals, water systems and airports rise.
OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Microsoft and other leaders warn there is a limited window to strengthen cyber defenses as AI-powered attacks become more widespread and sophisticated. The open letters urge governments and industry to coordinate a global response and fund defensive AI. The call comes amid rising incidents and a push for better security standards to protect critical infrastructure such as hospitals and the internet.
Western intelligence agencies warn that Iran's state-linked hackers have used CHOSEN BRICK spyware to steal emails, messages and device data via spear-phishing on WhatsApp and Telegram, with victims linked to dissidents and activists. The advisories from the FBI, NCSC and AIVD say the operation has been active since Autumn 2023, with further developments this year.
Since early November, dozens of supermarkets in Belgium, Sweden, Luxembourg, Estonia and Ireland have had their refrigeration systems manipulated remotely, raising temperatures to about 50°C and forcing large-scale disposal of chilled and frozen food. Retailers including Ahold Delhaize, Carrefour, ICA and Coop have reported IT incidents while national cyber centres and police are investigating.
The National Cyber Security Centre says UK organisations have had vulnerable tech exploited, with several European supermarkets reporting fridge failures. UK officials warn AI-enabled threats loom as critical infrastructure remains under threat and urges rapid investment in safer tech.