Trend Micro has announced Pwn2Own Ireland, a contest to discover vulnerabilities in AI-enabled consumer devices.
The contest, backed by Meta, Synology, and QNAP, invites global hackers to identify AI-powered hardware and software exploits commonly used in consumer products. The initiative aims to mitigate the potential threat posed by such devices, which are increasingly intruding into corporate networks, especially as the trend toward remote work increases.
Highlighting the evolving landscape of enterprise security, Mick McCluney, ANZ field CTO at Trend Micro, said: “Enterprise security now extends beyond corporate devices: remote working, bring-your-own-device policies; and sprawling corporate networks, expanding the attack surface.” To proactively address this complex challenge, we are implementing bug bounty programs like Pwn2Own that reward researchers before attackers exploit vulnerabilities, protecting both our business customers and the industry as a whole. We are continuing to work on this. ”
The widespread use of AI technology comes with both great promise and risk. As generative AI tools become increasingly popular, new avenues of cyberthreat are emerging, including threats to cloud infrastructure and data security, and the creation of deepfakes for fraudulent purposes. Consumer devices equipped with AI can pose a security threat even if they are not directly connected to a business network, as they can independently store the information used by the AI.
Trend Micro’s Zero Day Initiative, which is organizing the contest, will reward researchers who have successfully identified vulnerabilities across seven categories: mobile phones, messenger apps, SOHO (small office/home office) smashups, surveillance systems, and home automation hubs. provides financial incentives. , printers, smart speakers, and network attached storage (NAS) devices. The insights gathered are incorporated into Trend Micro’s threat intelligence in real time, leveraging AI in both offensive and defensive capabilities.
Dustin Childs, Head of Threat Awareness for Trend Micro’s Zero-Day Initiative, commented on the importance of addressing vulnerabilities quickly: “The rapid adoption of AI tools, combined with the widespread use of consumer devices on corporate networks, challenges organizations around the world to reduce threats and vulnerabilities in these devices and programs. is unavoidable, but it reduces the risk for all stakeholders: employees, businesses, and partners. Masu.”
Trend Micro continues to enhance its Trend Vision One platform to address the various threats facing global enterprises. Enhancements in 2024 include pioneering security solutions for AI services, deepfake content detection capabilities, and expanded protection for AI-related infrastructure and deployments in both enterprise and government environments.
Trend Micro maintains its stance on responsible AI practices, emphasizing the need for security vendors to ensure ethical, transparent, and accountable technology development and deployment. The Pwn2Own Ireland event took place in Cork from 22nd to 25th October 2024.
