South Korean Churches Investigate Suspected AI-Related Cyberattacks Linked to Data Leaks

Two major churches in South Korea are investigating suspected cyberattacks linked to artificial intelligence (AI), which may have led to the leakage of personal data from hundreds of thousands of believers. Oasis Security has identified that data, attack records, and account information from the Bare Evangelical Church and the Caring Church in Seoul are stored on overseas servers, suggesting the use of AI tools in the attacks.

Oasis Security reported that the attack records include references to sub-agents and a large number of automated attack reports, indicating the use of AI technology in the intrusion process. The Ecumenical Evangelical Church stated that preliminary analysis suggests over 850,000 members may have had their data stolen.

The leaked data includes names, dates of birth, and in some cases, changes to national identification numbers, addresses, and telephone numbers. The churches are working to address the breach, with one church in the Preah Vihear area establishing an emergency response unit to report suspicious incidents to authorities and take measures to identify the situation and prevent further damage.

South Korea has experienced similar cyber incidents, including a previous hack of a major business bank that resulted in the leakage of personal data from clients. President Lee Jae Myung expressed concern about the use of AI in the recent cyberattack, highlighting the growing threat of AI-powered cyber threats.

The incident raises concerns about the security of personal data within religious institutions and the potential for AI to be used in sophisticated cyberattacks. As the churches investigate the breach, they are also considering steps to enhance their cybersecurity measures and protect their congregations’ information.

The situation underscores the need for vigilance in the digital age, where even institutions dedicated to spiritual matters are not immune to technological vulnerabilities. As the investigation continues, the churches remain focused on safeguarding their members’ data and maintaining trust within their communities.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Mandarin Chinese)