Gates warns of AI-driven cyberattacks and bioterror risks

Bill Gates has issued a stark warning about the growing threat of AI-powered cyberattacks, saying malicious actors are exploiting powerful models without proper safeguards ^[1]. Speaking in a CNN interview with Jake Tapper, Gates warned that over the next year, the cyber landscape could see a wave of disruptive and financially motivated attacks, including extortion schemes and market manipulation. He emphasized that while AI going rogue remains a distant concern, the immediate danger lies in how bad actors are already using AI to target critical infrastructure and financial systems.

According to CrowdStrike’s 2026 Global Threat Report, AI-enabled cyberattacks rose 89% year over year in 2025, with attackers now moving laterally through networks in just 29 minutes on average—a significant acceleration from previous years ^[1]. Gates highlighted the financial incentives behind these attacks, noting that criminals can threaten data breaches or system outages to demand ransoms or profit from market volatility.

He also raised alarms about bioterrorism, stating that AI could increase the risk of a deadly biological attack by up to 50 times compared to natural pandemics, though he stressed that this remains a long-term threat ^[1]. Tapper pressed him on how soon such an attack could occur and whether governments are prepared—Gates replied that current efforts are insufficient.

Democratic strategist Oliver Libby echoed these concerns, calling for coordinated federal and international regulation to address AI risks while ensuring equitable access to its benefits ^[1]. He urged leaders to balance innovation with security, especially as AI reshapes jobs, deepfakes, and child safety.

The warning comes as cybersecurity experts report a rapid escalation in AI-driven threats, underscoring the urgent need for updated defenses and policy frameworks ^[1]. The story was first reported by New York Post.