Microsoft offers free cybersecurity program to help Europe combat AI-driven threats

European governments are getting a little backup to strengthen the cybersecurity space. Microsoft has announced a new security initiative aimed at stopping AI-fueled attacks before they cause real damage. What’s interesting is that it’s all for free.

A timely move in an AI-threat landscape

As AI tools get smarter, so do cybercriminals. Over the last few years, there’s been a huge spike in generative AI being weaponized—used to write better phishing emails, build more convincing deepfakes, and launch faster, more adaptive malware. Microsoft says it’s seeing hostile nations and criminal networks lean heavily into this new tech.

To counter that, Microsoft is rolling out what it calls the European Security Program. The aim is to help national governments in the EU strengthen their defenses, share threat intel more effectively, and build resilience using AI before attackers get the upper hand.

Not just talk—actual takedowns

This isn’t just a policy play. Microsoft says it recently worked with European law enforcement to help take down Lumma, an infostealer malware that had its sights on crypto wallets and financial data. In two months, it infected nearly 400,000 devices globally, many in Europe.

This collaboration led to the shutdown or blocking of over 2,300 command-and-control domains tied to the malware. Microsoft also says it actively monitors how its AI models are used and works to stamp out abuse, like when tools such as ChatGPT are twisted into planning cyberattacks or crafting impersonation scams.