ECB warns eurozone banks of cyber threats from AI tool Mythos

On May 13, 2026, the European Central Bank (ECB) issued a warning regarding potential cyberattacks targeting eurozone banks powered by the artificial intelligence model Mythos, developed by Anthropic. ECB board member Frank Elderson emphasized that the lack of access to this tool puts European banks at a disadvantage and necessitates urgent protective measures. ECB President Christine Lagarde confirmed that the institution is actively evaluating defense strategies against such threats. Reports indicate that major U.S. banks have already secured early access to Mythos to identify and patch security vulnerabilities. Furthermore, three major Japanese banks are expected to gain access to the tool within the next two weeks. Elderson urged banks to act immediately rather than using their lack of access as a reason for inaction. He also cautioned that financial institutions must prepare for even more sophisticated and aggressive AI models anticipated in the near future.