Prompt Injection: A Comprehensive Guide

In August 2024, Johann Rehberger uncovered a critical vulnerability in Microsoft 365 Copilot, highlighting the danger of prompt injection attacks, a significant security threat to Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Slack AI. These attacks exploit LLMs' inability to distinguish between legitimate instructions and malicious inputs, leading to potential data breaches, unauthorized access, and harmful outputs. Direct and indirect prompt injections allow attackers to manipulate AI behavior, often using techniques like obfuscation and token smuggling to bypass filters. The risks include data exfiltration, system compromise, and the potential spread of misinformation. While strategies such as input sanitization, strict input constraints, and AI-powered detection can mitigate risks, the challenge remains in balancing security with functionality. The evolving nature of AI technology necessitates ongoing research and adaptation to new threats, emphasizing the importance of pre-deployment testing, robust system design, and continued education for developers and users.