**AI-Powered Attackers Leverage FortiBleed Flaw to Steal Sensitive Data**
A highly sophisticated cyberattack has been linked to two notorious ransomware operations, exploiting a previously unknown vulnerability in a popular software package. The attack, dubbed “FortiBleed,” uses artificial intelligence (AI) to scan for and exploit vulnerabilities in network devices, highlighting the growing threat of AI-powered attacks.
The FortiBleed flaw affects Fortinet’s Secure Web Gateway, a widely used security solution that protects organizations from malicious web traffic. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can steal sensitive data, including login credentials, and potentially gain unauthorized access to corporate networks. What’s more alarming is that the attackers behind FortiBleed are linked to two prominent ransomware operations: INC (Initial Access Broker) and Lynx.
To understand how this works, consider the following: AI models like those used in natural language processing can be trained on vast amounts of data to identify patterns and weaknesses in software code. In the case of FortiBleed, these models were used to detect a previously unknown vulnerability in the Secure Web Gateway package. Attackers then exploit this flaw using malicious scripts that can scan for and extract sensitive data from affected systems.
The victims of this attack are likely organizations with outdated or unpatched software packages, making them easy prey for AI-powered attackers. While Fortinet has issued patches to address the vulnerability, many organizations may still be at risk if they haven’t applied these updates yet. The fact that two prominent ransomware operations are linked to FortiBleed further emphasizes the severity of this threat.
The use of AI in cyberattacks is becoming increasingly prevalent, and it’s no longer just a matter of relying on human intuition or traditional security measures. Organizations must adapt their defenses to keep pace with these emerging threats. This includes staying up-to-date with software patches, implementing robust monitoring tools, and investing in advanced threat detection technologies.
As the cybersecurity landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: organizations cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to patch management and vulnerability scanning. By taking proactive steps to secure their networks against known vulnerabilities like FortiBleed, businesses can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to AI-powered attacks.
Source: The Hacker News — 2026-07-02