Hackers are increasingly using artificial intelligence (AI) to impersonate senior US officials, targeting federal and state government employees in an attempt to steal login credentials and sensitive information. The FBI issued a warning on Thursday, highlighting the growing threat posed by AI-generated texts and voice recordings used in social engineering attacks.
According to the FBI, these malicious actors use deepfake technology to impersonate trusted figures, building credibility before directing targets to external platforms designed to harvest their login details. Once the attackers gain access to these accounts, they can potentially exploit them to access more sensitive government information.
The FBI emphasized that the stolen data could not only be used for further cyberattacks on government officials but could also be employed to manipulate individuals or extract financial resources. The agency has not disclosed how many officials have been targeted, nor whether the attacks are connected to state-backed entities or criminal organizations.
Experts warn that AI tools are making it easier for scammers to mimic voices, writing styles, and even video footage of public figures. This trend has become more concerning as AI-generated content becomes increasingly sophisticated and accessible. Once a hacker gains control of a legitimate account, they can easily manipulate other contacts or officials.
The FBI’s advisory follows previous alerts about the risks of AI-enabled scams. In December 2024, the agency warned about the rising threats posed by AI-generated content, including text, audio, video, and images, which are commonly used in fraud, identity theft, and extortion schemes.
As AI technology advances, cybersecurity experts urge greater vigilance and caution in dealing with unknown communication, particularly from public figures or government officials. The FBI’s warning comes amid growing concerns over the potential for more widespread exploitation of AI in cybercrime.