However, criminal hackers are also leveraging the same AI opportunities, which introduces additional risks to cybersecurity.

Hackers perceive AI in three main roles: as a tool to enhance hacking techniques, as a target for attacks, and as a potential threat to users.

Interestingly, 74% of hackers agree that AI has made hacking more accessible, potentially increasing the number of new ethical hackers.

While hardware hacks may not always dominate headlines, their consequences can be severe, affecting critical systems like home networks and medical devices.

Bugcrowd's eighth annual report, 'Inside the Mind of a Hacker,' surveyed nearly 1,300 ethical hackers, focusing on the rise of hardware hacking and the impact of AI.

The report reveals a significant shift in perception, with the belief that AI enhances the value of hacking soaring from 21% in 2023 to 71% in 2024.

Among the surveyed hackers, 1,000 reported utilizing AI tools in their hacking activities, highlighting the technology's growing integration into their practices.

AI's ability to analyze data for subtle variations that human hackers might overlook is transforming the hacking landscape.

Furthermore, AI improves the efficiency of phishing attacks for hackers while enhancing real-time intrusion detection for cybersecurity defenders.

According to Bugcrowd CEO Dave Gerry, a staggering 81% of hackers believe the AI threat landscape is evolving too rapidly to secure effectively.

Bugcrowd emphasizes the importance of understanding trends in the hacking community to better prepare for future cybersecurity challenges.

The rise of hardware hacking is attributed to the proliferation of vulnerable IoT devices, with AI enhancing the ability to discover these vulnerabilities.