Cybercriminals exploit AI to steal travelers’ data – expert

Cybersecurity expert Ololade Mafimidiwo has cautioned that the increasing use of AI-powered cyberattacks poses a major threat to the travel and hospitality industry, exposing sensitive personal data.

She noted that while digital platforms offer convenience for booking flights, hotels, and online purchases, cybercriminals now exploit AI to manipulate consumers and breach data security.

“AI-driven attacks are a pressing reality, particularly in the travel sector, where passport details, payment information, and itinerary data are frequently shared across interconnected systems,” Mafimidiwo warned.

She highlighted how hackers use AI-powered phishing scams, scraping social media and e-commerce data to craft targeted cyberattacks. The automation of hacking techniques enables fraudsters to bypass security measures, steal personal data, and even launch ransomware attacks.

To counter these risks, she advised travel companies to invest in AI-based threat detection systems, conduct security audits, and educate customers on cybersecurity best practices.