AI + Social Engineering: The New Threat CISOs Can’t Ignore

Artificial Intelligence is transforming business operations, but it's also giving cybercriminals an edge. One of the most alarming developments? AI-enhanced social engineering.

According to the OAIC Data Breach Report (Jan-Jun 2024):

• 30% of reported data breaches were caused by human error
• 12% were linked to phishing attacks

These aren’t just statistics—they’re warnings. Even the most secure infrastructure can be compromised if an employee is manipulated into clicking the wrong link or sharing credentials.

Why AI Makes Social Engineering Deadlier

AI amplifies social engineering by targeting human psychology with precision:

• Automation: Scales attacks across countless targets, tailoring each for maximum effect.
• Deepfakes: Synthetic media mimics trusted voices or faces, tricking even cautious employees.
• Phishing 2.0: AI crafts emails so convincing they blur the line between real and fake.

Unlike tech exploits, these attacks bypass firewalls and target your people—your weakest and strongest link. Read more: CSO - Deepfakes emerge as a top security threat ahead of the 2024 US election

Types of Social Engineering Attacks 

1. Phishing / Spear Phishing – Emails or messages that trick users into clicking links or sharing credentials 
2. Baiting – Enticing users to download malware in exchange for fake "rewards" 
3. Pretexting / Quid Pro Quo – Fabricated stories to extract sensitive data 
4. Tailgating – Gaining physical access by exploiting human politeness 

Actionable Steps to Fight Back

A robust defense starts with a people-first approach. Here’s how to harden your organization:

• Train Relentlessly: Equip staff with up-to-date awareness of social engineering red flags.
• Simulate Attacks: Run phishing and pretexting drills to sharpen reflexes.
• Enforce MFA: Add layers beyond passwords to thwart credential theft.
• Build Reporting Muscle: Foster a blame-free culture for flagging suspicious activity.
• Test Regularly: Assess human vulnerabilities with controlled social engineering exercises.

Go One Step Further 

At Cyber Node, we help Australian businesses reduce risk by targeting the human element—before attackers do. 

• Social Engineering Testing 

• Tailored Staff Training 

• Realistic Phishing Simulations 

Ready to strengthen your human firewall? 

📩 Contact us: sales@cybernode.au

🌐 Learn more: cybernode.au