An article has surfaced revealing that hackers in China managed to exploit the Microsoft-owned ChatGPT, developed by OpenAI, through the use of VPNs. These cyber criminals successfully deployed ransomware, encrypting servers within a Hangzhou-based firm in Zhejiang Province. Surprisingly, four individuals linked to this incident have been arrested in China, although the charges are not related to the creation of malware or disruption of IT services. Rather, the arrests focus on the fraudulent use of a foreign AI-based online service within the region. This story has gained attention on social media platforms and has captured the interest of the Western audience. The ransom demanded by the cyber-criminals was 20,000 Tether, a cryptocurrency currently valued at $1 in the international crypto markets. OpenAI has implemented restrictions on access to its service in specific regions, including China, but individuals are circumventing these limitations using VPNs. Three of the four arrested individuals were apprehended in Beijing, while the remaining individual was taken into custody in Mongolia. The detainees were also involved in other criminal activities, such as spreading misinformation through deep fake technology and selling stolen CCTV footage. This arrest report is particularly significant as it goes against the information control policies of the Chinese government.
Key Points:
1. Hackers in China exploited Microsoft-owned ChatGPT through VPNs to deploy ransomware.
2. Four individuals have been arrested in China for the fraudulent use of a foreign AI-based online service.
3. The ransom demanded by the cyber-criminals was 20,000 Tether.
4. OpenAI has implemented restrictions on access to its service in specific regions, including China, but individuals are bypassing them using VPNs.
5. The arrested individuals were also involved in other criminal activities, such as spreading misinformation through deep fake technology and selling stolen CCTV footage.