Open source models could harbor hidden time-release backdoors
llmbababoom · hn · 2026-08-24
The article warns that open-source models may contain hidden "time-release" backdoors. Attackers can implant logic in weights that triggers malicious behavior (like generating harmful code) at a specific time or condition post-training. These backdoors are hard to detect via static inspection and often survive fine-tuning. The post demonstrates construction methods and defense strategies, urging the community to verify the security of models from unknown sources.
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