The Role of Generative AI in Social Engineering and Phishing: Implications for Security Education

The rapid evolution of generative artificial intelligence (AI) has brought transformative changes to cybersecurity. In the context of social engineering and phishing, generative AI has emerged as a powerful tool, enabling cybercriminals to create more convincing and sophisticated attacks. This article explores the implications of generative AI in enhancing social engineering tactics, particularly through phishing schemes, and its impact on cybersecurity strategies. Reviewing the existing literature on AI-driven phishing detection and the evolving landscape of digital deception, it shows how attackers can leverage AI to tailor phishing messages that increase trust and deceive users more effectively. The paper emphasizes the critical role of cybersecurity education in mitigating these risks, arguing that awareness and training programs must evolve to address AI-driven threats. It concludes with recommendations for enhancing security education so that individuals and organizations can recognize and defend against AI-powered phishing attempts, fostering a more secure digital environment.