Report.. A single hashtag is enough to compromise AI browsers

 A vulnerability allows malicious instructions to be inserted into links

Report.. A single hashtag is enough to compromise AI browsers

In a development that raises concerns about the future of AI browsing, researchers have warned that AI browsers can be compromised using a tiny part of a link—just a hashtag.

 A study by Cato Networks reveals that a new technique called HashJack allows malicious instructions to be inserted into links, after the hashtag symbol (#), without the user noticing or traditional monitoring tools detecting it.

How does the hack work?

The idea is simple yet dangerous:

The text after the hashtag is never sent to a server; instead, it is processed locally within the browser.

Here, the browser assistant reads hidden instructions that appear to the user as part of a normal link, according to a report published by TechRadar.

While the user sees a completely normal page, the assistant begins executing commands that the user never entered, including:

- Sending sensitive data to servers controlled by the attacker.

- Displaying misleading instructions.

- Promoting fake links that mimic trusted websites. The worst part is that the webpage displays everything normally, making the manipulation extremely difficult to detect.

Company responses vary.

Major tech companies were notified of the vulnerability, but their responses were not uniform:

- Some companies released immediate updates.

- Others considered the behavior "expected" given how the browser assistant works.

The core of the problem is that network scanning tools cannot see the hidden text because it never leaves the user's device, creating a serious gap in detection and protection. Therefore, protecting endpoints and addressing how AI is integrated into the browser has become essential, not just an optional extra.

A new type of threat

The vulnerability reveals a problem specific to AI-powered browsers:

Perfectly legitimate websites can be exploited to launch an invisible attack, leaving no trace in network logs or traffic.

For organizations that have begun relying on intelligent browsers, ignoring this type of attack could leave entire systems exposed.

How to protect yourself?

Although the attack is technical, the following basic advice remains important:

- Avoid sharing unnecessary personal information.

- Monitor your financial accounts regularly.

- Use strong and unique passwords.

- Verify links before logging in.

- Beware of suspicious messages claiming to be from banks.

- Use up-to-date security software.

- Enable your firewall.

- Use identity verification services if possible.

- Remember that attacks are becoming more sophisticated thanks to artificial intelligence.