Problems for ChatGPT: Lessons from the mass ban of OpenAI accounts used for cyberattacks

What companies can learn from OpenAI's recent move against the malicious use of AI

OpenAI has blocked ChatGPT accounts linked to cyber threat groups such as APT28 (Russia) and APT31 (China). This action not only responds to activities detected as part of disinformation operations, but it also sends a clear message: the misuse of generative artificial intelligence will be firmly combated.

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What this OpenAI move means for enterprise cybersecurity strategy

Organizations must understand that AI is not only an efficiency tool, but also a new risk vector. This news has direct implications for companies in all sectors:

• Demonstrate how malicious actors are adopting AI to automate attacks.
• Reinforces the need for clear internal policies for the use of AI tools.
• It invites us to rethink cybersecurity as a comprehensive and constantly evolving strategy.

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Analysis: How ChatGPT was used in malicious operations

Microsoft Threat Intelligence and OpenAI reports reveal that:

• ChatGPT was used to translate technical documents and phishing messages.
• APT groups used it to write false posts on social networks.
• In some cases, they sought to understand systems or vulnerabilities without the need for complex malware.

Although the uses were considered “basic”, they represent a dangerous gateway if action is not taken in time.

According to OpenAI, they are actively working to “share threat intelligence, key indicators and best practices with other industry players and government bodies.”

However, this alliance does not guarantee full immunity. As AI-based offensive capabilities evolve, attackers are also refining their strategies to evade automated controls. This poses a latent risk for companies that have not yet adapted their internal policies or updated their technological defenses.

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What Your Company Should Do Right Now

Actionable lessons you can apply today:

1. Audit internal uses of AI tools. It establishes a governance framework.
2. Empower your teams on cybersecurity risks linked to generative AI.
3. Monitor abnormal behavior and set proactive alerts.
4. Collaborate with cybersecurity experts that they understand the new landscape.

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Conclusion: Cybersecurity can't stay in the past

What OpenAI has done marks a before and after. It's not enough to protect traditional systems: now we must also protect workflows with AI. Being prepared is a competitive advantage.

Act now so you don't get left behind!

At Apolo Cybersecurity we help companies to design policies for the responsible use of AI and to shield their operations against new threats. Request a free audit now!

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