# ChatGPT Atlas Browser: What Are Prompt Injection Attacks? Experts Warn Of Vulnerabilities

The latest addition to the web browser landscape, OpenAI's ChatGPT Atlas browser, has raised concerns among security experts. Launched on October 21, this macOS-based browser aims to integrate AI capabilities for automating tasks such as form-filling and research. However, a recent report by Brave researchers highlights vulnerabilities in AI-powered browsers, including prompt injection attacks.

## What Are Prompt Injection Attacks?

Prompt injection is a type of cyberattack on large language models (LLMs). Malicious inputs are disguised as valid prompts, manipulating generative AI systems into spilling sensitive information, spreading disinformation, or performing harmful actions. According to IBM, prompt injection vulnerabilities can override system security controls in AI chatbots like ChatGPT.

### How Do Prompt Injection Attacks Work?

The attacks allow cybercriminals to insert malicious commands inside web content, endangering user files, passwords, and banking accounts. Brave researchers discovered that these attacks can be triggered by innocuous actions, such as summarizing a Reddit post or opening a document editor. The malicious prompts are hidden within the website's content, making it difficult for users to detect.

### Risks of Prompt Injection Attacks

The risks associated with prompt injection attacks are alarming. These attacks can:

* Hijack your computer and access sensitive information * Steal login credentials for brokerage or banking services * Expose confidential documents and emails

## OpenAI's Response

OpenAI has implemented safeguards to mitigate the risk of prompt injection attacks. The company rolled out its Guardrails safety framework on October 6, as part of its new AgentKit toolset for developers. However, experts and users on X have advised caution, especially when performing sensitive operations.

### Why Is This a Concern?

The security vulnerability found in Perplexity's Comet browser this summer is not an isolated issue. Indirect prompt injections are a systemic problem facing AI-powered browsers. Brave researchers have highlighted two new attack vectors: embedding nearly invisible instructions in website screenshots and processing malicious visible instructions alongside user queries.

## What Should You Do?

To avoid falling victim to prompt injection attacks, experts recommend:

* Avoiding agentic browsers like OpenAI Atlas * Isolating agentic behavior and requiring plain user intervention for sensitive operations * Staying informed about the latest security updates and patches

### Conclusion

While OpenAI's ChatGPT Atlas browser offers exciting possibilities for automating tasks, it's essential to acknowledge the risks associated with prompt injection attacks. By understanding these threats and taking necessary precautions, users can protect themselves from potential harm.

## Additional Resources

* Brave's official blog post on AI-powered browsers * IBM's explanation of prompt injection vulnerabilities * OpenAI's Guardrails safety framework documentation