A new Microsoft security report has revealed a sharp rise in the success rate of AI-generated phishing emails, making them 4.5 times more effective than traditional phishing attempts. With cybercriminals rapidly adopting generative AI tools, phishing—already the most common attack vector—has become significantly more convincing and harder to detect.
According to Microsoft, attackers are using AI to craft highly personalized emails that mimic tone, writing style, and communication patterns with unprecedented accuracy. These messages often contain flawless grammar, contextual cues, and dynamic references that make them appear authentic to unsuspecting users. Hackers are also using AI to automate phishing at scale, sending thousands of customized emails in minutes.
The report highlights a surge in business email compromise (BEC), credential harvesting, and invoice fraud, all boosted by AI’s ability to bypass traditional security filters. Attackers can now generate variants of phishing messages in real time, helping them evade detection and adapt to security patches quickly.
Microsoft warns that organizations relying solely on legacy email filters are increasingly vulnerable. The company recommends adopting AI-assisted security tools, continuous user training, and stronger authentication measures such as passwordless login and hardware-based security keys.
The findings underscore a growing reality: cybercriminals are using the same AI advancements that businesses rely on—creating a digital battleground where speed, adaptation, and intelligence matter more than ever. As AI-driven attacks accelerate, Microsoft urges companies to shift toward proactive defense strategies that match the sophistication of these new threats.
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