Hong Kong records nearly 18% rise in ransomware cases amid drop in tech crime

Hong Kong saw a nearly 18% increase in ransomware cases during the first three quarters of the year, even as overall technology crime fell. The rise is attributed to AI-aided attacks, with police noting the use of AI agents and other forms of artificial intelligence in cyberattacks. Chief Superintendent Raymond Lam warned that AI increases the speed, volume, and effectiveness of attacks.

In response, police developed an AI-powered system to detect fraudulent websites, which was used in a year-long joint operation with Interpol to remove over 51,000 phishing links. From January to September, 21,573 technology crime cases were recorded, an 11.5% drop from 24,370 the previous year. Ransomware cases rose 17.6% to 40, while hacking cases dropped 21.6% to 29.

Companies are urged to update their systems to prevent disruptions. Police also used AI for the operation, analyzing source codes and web domain indicators to identify suspected fraudulent online entities. Around 1,700 victims were identified, and 350,599 online hazards were detected, with phishing being the most common threat at 27.6%.

The rise in threats is attributed to a global increase in cyber threats and heightened detection by the police.