Chinese state-affiliated cyber groups are stepping up attacks after integrating DeepSeek and other open-source AI models into their operations. Taiwanese cybersecurity firm TeamT5 said these groups have more than doubled their attack volume after delegating routine tasks and parts of malware development to AI.
The development highlights how inexpensive AI tools can lower the technical and operational barriers for sophisticated cyber campaigns. Attackers can use AI to handle repetitive work while human operators focus on higher-value targets and decisions.
Researchers say, “DeepSeek has emerged as an attractive option because it combines strong capabilities with low operating costs and fewer restrictions for offensive cybersecurity tasks. Hackers have reportedly used AI models for reconnaissance, vulnerability research and malware-related development.”
A separate investigation by Palo Alto Networks' Unit 42 provides a clearer example of autonomous cyber operations. Experts found a Chinese-speaking cyber threat actor that linked the DeepSeek program to the open-source Hermes Agent. The software was utilized to probe exposed infrastructure for vulnerabilities and conduct exploitation attacks with minimal human interaction.
The campaign targeted more than 460 systems and involved seven vulnerabilities. Unit 42 said, “The operation combined autonomous AI-driven enumeration with manual exploitation, demonstrating how AI agents can perform multiple stages of an attack.”
The growing use of open-source AI creates a new challenge for defenders. Attackers no longer need to build every capability from scratch or spend as much time on repetitive reconnaissance.
Security teams now face a faster attack cycle, where AI can help adversaries discover exposed systems, analyse vulnerabilities and adapt their tactics. The development also reinforces the need for stronger monitoring of AI agents, stricter access controls and faster vulnerability remediation.
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