Microsoft has issued a stark warning that state-backed hackers from Russia and China are increasingly leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) tools to enhance cyberattacks on the United States. According to the tech giant’s latest threat intelligence report, these nations are using AI for sophisticated phishing campaigns, disinformation operations, and hacking strategies that target U.S. government agencies, defense contractors, and major corporations.

AI-Enhanced Hacking Techniques Emerge

The report reveals that threat groups linked to Russia’s intelligence services and China’s state-sponsored cyber units are using AI to write more convincing phishing emails, automate malware generation, and analyze stolen data at unprecedented speeds. This evolution allows cyberattacks to become more adaptive and difficult to detect, posing serious risks to national security and global digital infrastructure.

Russia’s Focus: Disinformation and Cyber Espionage

Microsoft identified several Russian hacking collectives, including those aligned with the GRU and FSB, as primary actors exploiting AI to fuel disinformation campaigns. These groups are allegedly using AI-generated images and content to manipulate public opinion and influence political narratives within the U.S. and allied nations. The company noted a sharp rise in such coordinated campaigns leading up to the 2024 U.S. elections.

China’s Strategy: Targeting Critical Infrastructure

Meanwhile, Chinese state-backed hackers have been observed using AI to analyze network vulnerabilities across U.S. critical infrastructure, including energy, telecommunications, and logistics. Microsoft cited that AI-enabled reconnaissance tools have allowed these actors to identify weak points faster and deploy precision cyberattacks that could disrupt essential services in case of geopolitical conflict.

U.S. Authorities on High Alert

U.S. cybersecurity agencies, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the FBI, have reportedly collaborated with Microsoft to investigate the AI-powered threat landscape. Officials are urging organizations to upgrade defenses, apply AI detection tools, and strengthen employee training against social engineering tactics.

Microsoft’s Call for Global AI Governance

The company emphasized the need for international cooperation to regulate AI use in cyber operations. Microsoft executives urged governments and private sectors to develop shared AI safety standards and transparency measures to prevent misuse by nation-state actors.