ChatGPT's web search tool has revolutionized the way we access information, providing quick and updated answers directly from its interface. This feature not only offers convenience but also includes links to external sources that support the provided information. However, as experts in cybersecurity from Kaspersky warn, this option presents certain risks similar to those of traditional search engines that users should be aware of.
Although ChatGPT's web search offers almost instant access to relevant answers, users must be aware that they may also receive links to suspicious pages or, worse, to phishing sites. Phishing is a technique used by cybercriminals to spoof trustworthy websites in order to steal sensitive data, such as passwords or banking information. Phishing links can sneak into the top search results, which can create a false sense of security for those who blindly trust the links provided by the tool.
Vladislav Tushkanov, head of Kaspersky's research group, explains that search engines can be victims of SEO phishing or SEM phishing, which is when cybercriminals manipulate the results so that their fraudulent pages appear in prominent positions. Although ChatGPT generally tends to identify and display official domains from recognized entities, the possibility of fraudulent links appearing in its results is not null.
In this regard, Tushkanov acknowledges that the underlying language model of ChatGPT has a global knowledge that allows it to protect users from trustworthy sites, but this does not guarantee that fraudulent links will not slip through.
For this reason, Kaspersky recommends that users be cautious and verify links before clicking on them. A good practice is to save links that are already known to be safe, manually type the URLs, or use comprehensive security solutions, such as antivirus and browser extensions, that alert about dangerous websites. This can help prevent users from falling into phishing traps and protect their personal information while browsing the web. Although ChatGPT's web search is a powerful and useful tool for obtaining information instantly, it is not without risks. Caution and online precautions are essential to ensure a safe experience and protect user privacy.
