Google Gemini: Hacking Memories with Prompt Injection and Delayed Tool Invocation
Researchers Discover Vulnerability in Google’s Large Language Model
Google’s Large Language Model (LLM) has been found to be vulnerable to a hacking technique that allows attackers to inject fake information into a user’s long-term memories without their explicit consent. The vulnerability, discovered by security researcher Rehberger, exploits a feature called "prompt injection" and "delayed tool invocation" in Google’s Gemini, a conversational AI model.
How the Attack Works
According to Rehberger, the attack works by tricking the user into summarizing a malicious document, which then prompts Gemini to store fake information into their long-term memories. The attacker can then use this information to manipulate the user’s memories, potentially leading to serious consequences.
Google’s Response
Google has responded to the finding, downplaying the severity of the issue. In an email statement, Google explained that the threat is low-risk and low-impact, citing the need for the user to be tricked into summarizing a malicious document and the limited impact of Gemini’s memory functionality on a user session.
Limitations and Concerns
Rehberger has expressed concerns about the potential implications of this vulnerability. "Memory corruption in computers is pretty bad, and I think the same applies here to LLMs apps," he wrote. "Like the AI might not show a user certain info or not talk about certain things or feed the user misinformation, etc. The good thing is that the memory updates don’t happen entirely silently—the user at least sees a message about it (although many might ignore)."
Conclusion
The discovery of this vulnerability highlights the importance of security research in the development of AI models like Gemini. While Google’s response may downplay the severity of the issue, the potential consequences of this vulnerability are serious and warrant further investigation and mitigation.
FAQs
Q: What is Google Gemini?
A: Google Gemini is a conversational AI model that can store and recall long-term memories.
Q: What is prompt injection?
A: Prompt injection is a technique used to trick the user into summarizing a malicious document, which can then be used to inject fake information into their long-term memories.
Q: Is this vulnerability serious?
A: Yes, the potential consequences of this vulnerability are serious, including manipulation of user memories and potential misinformation.
Q: How can I protect myself from this vulnerability?
A: Google has not provided specific guidance on how to protect against this vulnerability, but users can be vigilant and monitor their memory updates to detect potential unauthorized additions.
