Prompt Injection is a growing concern in cybersecurity [3], particularly for language models that rely on prompt-based learning [2]. This article discusses the vulnerabilities associated with prompt injection and the risks posed by generative AI tools.
Description
Prompt Injection is a cybersecurity issue that affects certain types of language models, specifically those that use prompt-based learning. Hackers have discovered methods to bypass content filters and manipulate large language models (LLMs) by carefully crafting prompts [3]. This vulnerability was first reported to OpenAI by Jon Cefalu in May 2022 and publicly disclosed by Riley Goodside in September 2022.
Prompt Injection allows attackers to include instructions in data fields [2], forcing the language model to perform unexpected actions [2]. This can lead to bypassing restrictions and malicious manipulation of model responses [2]. The method is difficult to detect and can be executed through websites or by directly instructing the AI [3]. While major developers are working on updates to address these vulnerabilities [3], the risk remains [3].
Generative AI tools also pose risks [1], both in terms of employee use and the threat of cybercriminals [1]. Cybercriminals can leverage generative AI to launch more potent cyberattacks [1], introducing greater unknown threats [1]. The Cloud Security Alliance (CSA) has identified five ways in which threat actors use AI to enhance their toolsets [1]. Additionally, there is a risk of employees misusing AI tools, such as leaking non-public information or intellectual property [1]. Furthermore, the data privacy and security risks associated with AI applications themselves vary significantly [1].
To mitigate the risk of prompt injections [3], organizations using LLMs should prioritize trust boundaries and implement security measures to limit the AI’s access and ability to make changes [3]. By adding layers of mitigations [2], exploitation becomes more challenging, although complete security against attackers is difficult to guarantee.
Conclusion
Prompt Injection and the risks associated with generative AI tools have significant impacts on cybersecurity. It is crucial for organizations to be aware of these vulnerabilities and take appropriate measures to protect their systems and data. By adopting AI-based defenses and best practices [1], such as AI-driven sandboxing [1], app segmentation [1], and ML-driven data classification [1], enterprises can enhance their data and user protection. However, it is important to recognize that the evolving nature of cybersecurity threats requires ongoing efforts to address vulnerabilities and stay ahead of potential attacks.
References
[1] https://www.zscaler.com/blogs/product-insights/generative-ai-how-enterprises-can-mitigate-ai-powered-threats-and-risks
[2] https://research.nccgroup.com/2022/12/05/exploring-prompt-injection-attacks/
[3] https://thehackernews.com/2023/10/i-had-dream-and-generative-ai-jailbreaks.html
