AI-created ransomware and NFC attacks lead the surge in new cyberattacks - here's how you can stay safe this holidays

Pirate skull cyber attack digital technology flag cyber on on computer CPU in background. Darknet and cybercrime banner cyberattack and espionage concept illustration.

• ESET discovers PromptLock, first AI-driven ransomware generating malicious scripts dynamically
• PromptLock scans systems, exfiltrates, encrypts, or destroys data based on AI decisions
• NFC malware also rising; experts urge updates, backups, and cautious handling of files/tools

Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) is now being used to code ransomware encryptors, researchers have said, revealing how the technology is no longer solely used for crafting phishing and scam content.