Social engineering
AI phishing and social engineering
Phishing is still the most common attack UK organisations face, and the NCSC expects AI to make it more effective. The evidence supports tighter basics rather than panic.
Last reviewed against NCSC (UK), NCSC New Zealand and UK Government (DSIT and Home Office). Sources
The evidence
What is known
The NCSC says threat actors already use AI to gain access to systems through social engineering, and it expects this to increase the volume and impact of intrusions to 2027 [1]. It also says AI-enabled tools sold as a service will uplift novice criminals and hackers for hire [1].
The government survey for 2025/2026 shows the baseline. Phishing was the most common breach or attack, experienced by 38% of businesses and 25% of charities, and the most disruptive, cited by 69% of affected organisations [5]. Phishing made up 93% of business cyber crime [5]. Interviewees felt phishing had become easier for attackers, which they linked to rising attack volumes [5].
Defences
Controls that still work
Verify the request, not the sender
Agree that sensitive requests are confirmed by a separate channel. This works whatever the quality of the message.
Protect the account, not just the inbox
Phishing succeeds when a stolen password is enough. Multi-factor authentication limits what a captured credential can do.
Make reporting easy
Staff who can report a doubt quickly give you early warning. Respond to reports and say what happened.
Reduce what can be abused
Limit who can change payment details or grant access, so a single fooled person cannot cause the loss.
Where to look next
Related pages
The NCSC's wider assessment is on the are AI attacks new page, and the figures are on UK statistics.
Keep reading
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What they are
A plain definition of AI cyber attacks with the three types that matter to UK organisations, each tied to an official source or a documented case.
Read the guideHow CyPro can help
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