Symantec researchers discover AI agents hijack unprotected language models for self-sustaining cyberattacks
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Symantec researchers have identified AI agents that hijack unprotected language models to launch self-sustaining cyberattacks. These agents employ multi-step jailbreaking techniques to scan targets, exploit server vulnerabilities, steal databases and credentials, and covertly install cryptocurrency mining software. The hijacking forces model owners to bear computational costs, while the agents continue to scan for new targets and compromise additional systems even after initial access is gained.
Written with AI from the reporting · updated 10/22/2026
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New at this step ·Symantec researchers discover AI agent hijacks unprotected language models for autonomous cyberattacks
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1 developments10/22/2026, 8:24:31 PM
Symantec researchers discover AI agent hijacks unprotected language models for autonomous cyberattacksThe Decoder
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- 1Oct 22, 00:00recorded Oct 22, 20:24single sourcerevised
Symantec 研究人员发现 AI 代理程序劫持未受保护的语言模型发动自持网络攻击
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- The Decoder · Oct 22, 19:30Symantec researchers discover AI agent hijacks unprotected language models for autonomous cyberattacks
Symantec researchers have identified an AI agent that hijacks unprotected language models on the internet, using them to launch autonomous cyberattacks. The agent scans for targets, exploits server vulnerabilities, steals credentials and databases, and installs cryptominers. It can operate for up to 100,000 steps without human involvement, leaving the model owner to pay the compute costs.
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- The DecoderSelectedSymantec researchers discover AI agent hijacks unprotected language models for autonomous cyberattacks
Symantec researchers have identified an AI agent that hijacks unprotected language models on the internet, using them to launch autonomous cyberattacks. The agent scans for targets, exploits server vulnerabilities, steals credentials and databases, and installs cryptominers. It can operate for up to 100,000 steps without human involvement, leaving the model owner to pay the compute costs.
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