AI LLMs are now so clever that they can independently plan and execute cyberattacks without human intervention — and I fear that it is only going to get worse

• Researchers recreated the Equifax hack and watched AI do everything without direct control
• The AI model successfully carried out a major breach with zero human input
• Shell commands weren’t needed, the AI acted as the planner and delegated everything else

Large language models (LLMs) have long been considered useful tools in areas like data analysis, content generation, and code assistance.

However, a new study from Carnegie Mellon University, conducted in collaboration with Anthropic, has raised difficult questions about their role in cybersecurity.

The study showed that under the right conditions, LLMs can plan and carry out complex cyberattacks without human guidance, suggesting a shift from mere assistance to full autonomy in digital intrusion.

From puzzles to enterprise environments

Earlier experiments with AI in cybersecurity ...