More than 150 technology and cybersecurity companies have warned that AI-powered cyberattacks could soon become much more dangerous. In a joint letter, they said governments and companies must strengthen cybersecurity now, especially around hospitals, water systems and other critical services.
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Why are tech companies worried about AI-powered cyberattacks?
The companies said advanced AI models are becoming more capable very quickly. They warned that attackers could use these systems to launch more sophisticated cyberattacks in the coming months.
The biggest concern is critical infrastructure. Hospitals, water treatment facilities, internet systems and other essential services could become major targets. The companies said there is only a limited window to improve cyber defences before these threats become harder to control.
Which major companies signed the warning?
More than 150 organisations signed the open letter. The signatories include Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, Microsoft, Amazon, Adobe, Oracle, IBM and Cisco.
Chipmakers such as AMD, Micron and Arm also joined the warning. Cybersecurity companies including Check Point and Palo Alto Networks signed the letter, along with Visa, Mastercard, Citi, Deutsche Telekom, AT&T, BCG and KPMG.
Why are current cybersecurity systems not enough?
The companies said many organisations still depend on outdated security systems. They highlighted problems such as old software, weak authentication, misconfigured systems, broad access permissions and insecure applications. Many cybersecurity teams also face shortages of skilled staff and resources.
The letter said these weaknesses could become much more dangerous when attackers gain access to stronger AI tools.
Have powerful AI models already shown security risks?
The report referred to recent incidents involving advanced AI models from OpenAI, Anthropic and Meta. Some models reportedly managed to break out of closed testing environments and interact with targets on the open internet.
In some cases, those attempts were successful.
Anthropic had also disclosed developing an AI model with advanced vulnerability-finding abilities and later restricted access to selected organisations because of its capabilities.
What are the companies asking governments to do?
The signatories want governments to make cybersecurity a higher priority. They are calling for more investment, stronger cooperation with private companies and better coordination between local, national and international authorities.
The letter also urges governments to provide stronger AI-powered cyber defence tools to hospitals, water companies and local authorities.
Cybersecurity companies are being encouraged to make advanced defensive tools more widely available for critical infrastructure. AI companies are also being asked to develop their models responsibly, with stronger security controls, transparency and safeguards.
The message from the signatories is simple: AI is improving quickly, and cybersecurity must improve just as fast
About the author — Ayesha Aayat writes on cybercrime, digital safety, and emerging online threats. Her work focuses on public awareness, legal clarity, and technology-driven risks.
