https://www.gartner.com/en/documents/7211030 (Member’s access)
In a move to address the escalating cybersecurity challenges posed by AI-powered browser extensions, leading research and advisory firm Gartner has issued a strong recommendation for organisations to ban the use of such tools. The growing prevalence of these extensions, which leverage advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning capabilities, has raised significant concerns about their potential to enable sophisticated attacks and compromise sensitive data.
Gartner’s analysts have identified several key risks associated with AI-powered browser extensions, including the ability to bypass security controls, impersonate legitimate users, and conduct seamless phishing and social engineering campaigns. These extensions can also be used to gather extensive user data, which can then be leveraged for targeted attacks or sold on the dark web. Furthermore, the rapid development and deployment of these tools make them difficult to detect and mitigate, posing a constant threat to organisations’ cybersecurity posture.
In light of these concerns, Gartner has advised IT leaders and security professionals to implement strict policies prohibiting the use of AI-powered browser extensions within their organisations.