Airbnb Adds AI to Search, Support; Figure Suffers Breach

Airbnb is planning to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) features into its platform to enhance user experience and streamline operations, while also facing increased scrutiny over data security. The company announced its intentions during its fourth-quarter conference call, revealing plans to leverage large language models for search, trip planning, and host support, according to TechCrunch. Simultaneously, blockchain-based lending company Figure Technology confirmed a data breach stemming from a social engineering attack, as reported by TechCrunch.

Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky stated the company aims to build an "AI-native experience" that goes beyond simple search functionality, aiming to personalize the platform for users and assist hosts in managing their properties. The company is already testing new AI features and has seen its custom-built AI agent handle approximately one-third of customer support issues in North America. Airbnb anticipates that within a year, over 30% of its total customer support tickets will be managed by AI in all languages where human customer service agents are employed, according to TechCrunch. Chesky believes this will not only reduce costs but also significantly improve service quality.

The data breach at Figure Technology, confirmed by a company spokesperson, originated from an employee being tricked in a social engineering attack. Hackers gained access to a limited number of files, and the company is offering free credit monitoring to those affected. The hacking group ShinyHunters claimed responsibility for the breach on its dark web leak website, stating that Figure refused to pay a ransom and subsequently published 2.5 gigabytes of allegedly stolen data, according to TechCrunch.

In other AI-related news, several AI companies are experiencing significant talent departures. According to TechCrunch, xAI has seen half of its founding team leave, while OpenAI is undergoing internal restructuring.