The US government has established an AI Safety and Security Board to seek advice from leading artificial intelligence companies on how to defend critical infrastructure such as airlines and utilities from AI-powered attacks. This advisory panel includes CEOs from companies like Google, Microsoft, and OpenAI, as well as defense contractors and air carriers. The government’s collaboration with the private sector reflects a need to address the risks and benefits of AI without a targeted national AI law in place.
The panel of experts will provide recommendations to various sectors on the responsible use of AI and help prepare them for AI-related disruptions. DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas emphasized the transformative potential of AI technology while also acknowledging the real risks it presents. The diverse group of participants includes CEOs of technology providers, chipmakers, AI model developers, civil rights groups, government officials, and leading academics in the field of AI.
The establishment of the AI Safety and Security Board was a result of a 2023 executive order signed by President Joe Biden, calling for improved security, resilience, and incident response related to AI usage in critical infrastructure. This executive order also led to government-wide regulations on the purchase and use of AI by federal agencies, which are already utilizing AI for a wide range of purposes such as monitoring natural disasters and identifying wildlife from satellite imagery.
Concerns about deepfake audio and video, fueled by AI technology, have raised alarms among US officials aiming to protect the integrity of the 2024 US election from misinformation and foreign interference. The use of AI to create fake content, such as a robocall imitating President Biden’s voice to discourage voters, has highlighted the potential risks posed by adversaries like Russia, China, and Iran. The AI advisory board is part of the government’s efforts to counter these threats and safeguard the democratic process.
Mayorkas acknowledged the real risk of adverse nation-states using AI to unduly influence elections and emphasized the importance of countering these efforts. The collaboration between the government and AI industry leaders underscores the need for proactive measures to address the evolving threats posed by AI technology. By leveraging the expertise of various sectors and stakeholders, the US government aims to enhance the security and resilience of critical infrastructure in the face of AI-powered attacks and disruptions.
