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Indirect prompt injection with data exfiltration via markdown image rendering is a sophisticated attack method where a malicious actor injects unauthorized commands or data into a prompt, often via text input fields or user-generated content. In this scenario, the attack leverages the markdown syntax used to render images. Markdown allows users to include images by specifying a URL, which the system then fetches and displays. However, a clever attacker can manipulate this feature by crafting a URL that, when accessed, sends the system’s internal data to an external server controlled by the attacker. This method is particularly dangerous because it can be executed indirectly, meaning the attacker doesn’t need direct access to the system or sensitive data; instead, they rely on the system’s normal operation to trigger the data leak. In a typical attack, an attacker might inject a prompt into a system that is configured to handle markdown content. When the system processes this content, it unwittingly executes the injected prompt, causing it to access an external server through the image URL. This URL can be designed to capture and log data, such as cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information. Since the markdown image rendering process often occurs in the background, this type of data exfiltration can go unnoticed, making it a stealthy and effective attack vector. The risk is amplified in environments where users have the ability to input markdown, such as in collaborative platforms or content management systems, where this vulnerability could lead to significant data breaches.

Direct Prompt Injection is a technique where a user inputs specific instructions or queries directly into an LLM (Large Language Model) to influence or control its behavior. By crafting the prompt in a particular way, the user can direct the LLM to perform specific tasks, generate specific outputs, or follow certain conversational pathways. This technique can be used for legitimate purposes, such as guiding an LLM to focus on a particular topic, or for more experimental purposes, like testing the boundaries of the model’s understanding and response capabilities. However, if misused, direct prompt injection can lead to unintended consequences, such as generating inappropriate or misleading content. Sensitive Information Disclosure in LLMs via Prompt Injection occurs when a user manipulates the prompt to extract or expose information that should remain confidential or restricted. LLMs trained on large datasets may inadvertently learn and potentially reproduce sensitive information, such as personal data, proprietary knowledge, or private conversations. Through carefully crafted prompts, an attacker could coerce the model into revealing this sensitive data, posing a significant privacy risk. Mitigating this risk requires rigorous data handling practices, including the anonymization of training data and implementing guardrails within the LLM to recognize and resist prompts that seek to extract sensitive information.

Prompting via emojis is a communication technique that uses emojis to convey ideas, instructions, or stories. Instead of relying solely on text, this method leverages visual symbols to represent concepts, actions, or emotions, making the message more engaging and often easier to understand at a glance. This approach is particularly popular in digital communication platforms like social media, where brevity and visual appeal are crucial. Emojis work well as prompts because they are universally recognized symbols that transcend language barriers. They can quickly convey complex ideas or emotions with a single image, making communication faster and more efficient. Additionally, emojis are visually engaging, which can enhance memory retention and increase the likelihood of the message being noticed and understood. In creative contexts, emoji prompts can stimulate imagination and encourage users to think outside the box. However, using emojis as prompts also presents security risks. Emojis can be ambiguous, leading to misinterpretation, which can be problematic in situations requiring precise communication. Additionally, emojis can be used to obscure or encode messages, potentially hiding malicious intent in otherwise innocuous-looking communication. This can make it difficult for automated systems or human reviewers to detect harmful content, leading to risks such as phishing or spreading misinformation. In environments where security is paramount, relying on emojis alone for critical instructions or communication could result in vulnerabilities.

In this video I will explain prompt injection via an image. The LLM is asked to describe the image but fails to do so. It reads the injection commands instead and acts on them.

Welcome. In this blog we will regularly publish blog articles around Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking of AI and LLM systems as well as useful trips and tricks on how to utilize artificial intelligence for both offensive and defensive security purposes. In addition, we will publish proof of concept videos on YouTube and embed the videos here in the blog. Subscribe to our YouTube channel and X account to stay up to date on latest Security developments around Artificial Intelligence (AI), Large Language Models (LLM) and Machine Learning (ML).