SciTransfer
PERUN · Project

AI-Powered Defense Against Next-Generation and AI-Generated Malware Threats

digitalPilotedTRL 7

Imagine a digital security guard that doesn't just look for known criminals but can spot a thief even if they've never seen their face before. It uses smart patterns to catch hackers who use AI to create new, invisible ways of breaking into systems. This keeps the lights on and the internet running by stopping attacks before they cause damage.

By the numbers
18
consortium partners
5
real-life scenarios for validation
9
industry partners
The business problem

What needed solving

Current cybersecurity tools rely on old rules and signatures that cannot detect AI-generated malware. This leaves critical energy, telecom, and NGO infrastructures vulnerable to invisible attacks.

The solution

What was built

AI and machine learning algorithms and high TRL tools for detecting malware in software, firmware, and hardware.

Audience

Who needs this

Energy grid operatorsPrivate Security Operations Centers (SOCs)National CERTs/CSIRTsTelecommunications providersCritical service NGOs
Business applications

Who can put this to work

Energy
enterprise
Target: Critical energy infrastructure operator

If you are a grid operator dealing with invisible malware in hardware or firmware — this project developed AI-driven detection tools that protect critical energy infrastructures from downtime.

Cybersecurity Services
mid-size
Target: Private Security Operations Center (SOC)

If you are a SOC provider dealing with AI-generated threats that bypass simple rules — this project developed high TRL tools that automate the detection of emerging malware.

Non-Profit
SME
Target: NGO providing critical digital services

If you are a non-profit dealing with limited security budgets and sophisticated attacks — this project developed cost-effective AI solutions to secure your digital infrastructure.

Frequently asked

Quick answers

What is the cost or pricing for these tools?

Based on available project data, specific pricing is not mentioned, but the project aims to provide solutions in a cost-effective way.

Can this be scaled to an industrial level?

Yes, the project is designed for national-level cybersecurity infrastructures and critical sectors like energy and telecommunications.

How is the IP and licensing handled?

Based on available project data, specific licensing terms are not provided, though it involves a consortium of 18 partners including 9 industry members.

When will the results be available?

The project period runs from 2025-10-01 to 2028-09-30.

How does this integrate with existing SOCs?

The tools are specifically designed to be applied in real-life scenarios for private SOCs and CERTs/CSIRTs.

Consortium

Who built it

The project features a strong commercial orientation with a 50% industry ratio, comprising 9 industry partners (including 7 SMEs) and 8 partners across 8 countries. This balance between 3 universities and 5 research entities suggests a fast track from scientific discovery to industrial application.

How to reach the team

Contact FERNUNIVERSITAT IN HAGEN in Germany

Next steps

Talk to the team behind this work.

Contact us to connect with the PERUN consortium for early access to AI-malware detection tools.