Cyber threats are becoming increasingly advanced due to the growing use of artificial intelligence (AI).
The combination of rapid AI adoption and ongoing geopolitical and economic uncertainty is creating a more complex threat landscape, enabling cybercriminals to launch faster and more sophisticated attacks.
According to Kaspersky’s latest telemetry, millions of users across the META region continued to face online threats exploiting vulnerabilities in websites, email platforms and web services during the first six months of 2026.
Türkiye recorded the highest proportion of users affected by web-based attacks at 22.8%, followed by Kenya with 21.2% and Qatar at 19.3%. Saudi Arabia, Jordan and Pakistan reported comparatively lower levels of web-borne cyber threats. In Pakistan, Kaspersky blocked online threats targeting 12.2% of its users during the first half of the year.
The report noted that cybercriminals are increasingly incorporating AI into multiple stages of their operations. Large language models are now being used to generate phishing emails, malicious software and other content that supports cyberattacks.
Researchers also observed AI contributing to malware development. Kaspersky identified AI-assisted coding in campaigns linked to the FunkSec group, which deployed Rust-based malware capable of stealing data, encrypting files and manipulating system processes. In another case, the 2025 RevengeHotels campaign used large language models to generate parts of the malware’s infector and downloader code.
“We expect AI to remain one of the key forces shaping the cyber threat landscape throughout 2026,” said Sergey Lozhkin, Head of Kaspersky’s Global Research and Analysis Team for the APAC and META regions.
He said AI is significantly reducing the time and resources needed to create and modify malicious tools, allowing attackers to adapt their tactics more quickly and expand their operations. He urged cybersecurity defenders to prepare for faster-changing attack methods.
Beyond AI-driven threats, Kaspersky identified several emerging risks for businesses. Cybercriminals are increasingly using legitimate cloud storage and file-sharing platforms to transfer stolen data, making malicious activity more difficult to detect. Ransomware groups are also shifting tactics by disrupting business operations and production systems, in addition to encrypting data, to increase pressure on victims to pay.
The company also warned of growing risks associated with AI agents that are granted extensive access to enterprise systems. If such agents are compromised, attackers could manipulate their configuration or system prompts to install malicious software, steal confidential information, carry out unauthorized actions or maintain long-term access to corporate networks. This creates a new cybersecurity challenge by turning trusted AI tools into potential attack vectors.
To counter these evolving threats, Kaspersky advised organizations to strengthen their cybersecurity strategies through continuous vulnerability assessments, timely software updates, employee awareness programmes, threat intelligence and advanced security solutions capable of detecting sophisticated and AI-powered attacks
