How Are Cybercriminals Using SEO Poisoning to Exploit AI Tool Demand Among SMBs?

The explosive rise of AI-powered productivity tools has made them prime targets for cybercriminals seeking to exploit demand among small and medium-sized businesses. Attackers are increasingly disguising malware as legitimate AI applications, capitalizing on the trust and urgency that SMBs place in adopting new technologies.

With the launch of high-profile AI services like ChatGPT and DeepSeek, the number of malicious files mimicking these tools has surged. In just the first four months of 2025, threats mimicking ChatGPT increased by 115%, highlighting how quickly attackers adapt to tech trends.

This trend underscores a broader shift in cybercrime, where the popularity and hype around AI tools directly influence the tactics and targets of malicious campaigns.

SEO Poisoning Techniques Drive Malware Distribution

Cybercriminals are deploying search engine optimization poisoning to elevate malicious websites in search results for popular AI and productivity tools. By manipulating search algorithms, these sites appear legitimate to unsuspecting users, who may inadvertently download malware instead of the genuine application.

Attackers create convincing fake websites that mimic trusted brands, sometimes even hijacking searches for tech support pages. Users are redirected to phishing sites or prompted to download trojanized installers, which then deploy infostealers and other malware on their systems.

These techniques are not limited to AI tools but extend to widely used platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Office, and emerging AI services, broadening the scope and impact of the threat.

Did you know?
In early 2025, the number of malicious files mimicking ChatGPT more than doubled compared to the previous year, making it one of the fastest-growing lures for cybercriminals targeting SMBs worldwide.

SMBs Face Escalating Risks from Fake AI Tools

Small and medium-sized businesses are particularly vulnerable to these attacks due to resource constraints and the urgent need to stay competitive with new technologies. Nearly 8,500 SMB users were targeted by malware disguised as AI and productivity tools between January and April 2025 alone.

Zoom accounted for the highest share of malicious files, but AI tools like ChatGPT and DeepSeek are quickly gaining ground as lures for cyberattacks. The sheer volume of unique malicious files, over 4,000 observed in 2025, demonstrates the scale of the threat facing SMBs.

The rapid adoption of AI services, combined with limited cybersecurity awareness and controls, amplifies the risks for SMBs, making them attractive targets for cybercriminals seeking financial gain and sensitive data.

ALSO READ | Can Indian Cyber Defenses Withstand TAG-140’s Evolving DRAT V2 Attacks?

Real-World Impact: From Data Theft to Financial Loss

The consequences of falling victim to SEO poisoning attacks can be severe. Once malware is installed, attackers can steal sensitive business information, compromise credentials, and exfiltrate cryptocurrency wallet data.

Some campaigns use advanced loaders and scripts to bypass detection, while others manipulate legitimate search results to display scam contact information, deceiving users into disclosing confidential details or calling fraudulent support lines.

The financial and reputational damage from such breaches can cripple SMBs, highlighting the urgent need for robust cybersecurity measures and user education.

Proactive Defense Measures Essential for SMB Survival

To counter these evolving threats, experts recommend a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity. SMBs should verify software sources, avoid downloading applications from search results or suspicious links, and invest in advanced threat detection solutions that can identify and block SEO poisoning attempts in real time.

Regular staff training to recognize phishing and fake software, along with automated security workflows, can significantly reduce the risk of compromise. As attackers continue to refine their tactics, vigilance and proactive defense remain the best strategies for SMBs to safeguard their operations and data.