Throughout the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) technology has quickly become part of everyday life. Smartphones come equipped with AI-backed voice recognition software that can answer simple questions and maximize the use of your device. Even facial recognition software, which once had connotations of CIA-level security, feels common, as tablets, smartphones, and computers use AI facial recognition as a security measure for accessing these devices.
With most changes in the digital sphere that catapult us into a new era of technological interaction, AI development continues to outpace the regulatory efforts necessary to keep these interactions as safe as possible.
Though there are existential fears surrounding AI and what it means for humanity, the real threats of AI are much more imminent and critical to explore. So, what are the actual dangers of unregulated AI, and how can we mitigate the risks associated with its use and popularity? We’ll explore some common threats of unregulated AI, diving into the need for global regulation and personal protective measures you can take part in immediately.
AI and Cybersecurity Breaches
Since many websites, applications, devices, and other forms of technology require access to personal information such as credit card credentials, passwords, Social Security numbers, and more, there always comes a risk of a potential data breach. With AI, these data breaches can fundamentally alter your life since hackers can access your personal information and can use it to influence your life and manipulate your devices.
As many people choose to integrate devices that use AI software, they can find themselves in a difficult situation – hackers can monitor your spending and everyday activities. They can even view your every move through your cameras and baby monitors.
When using AI-backed devices, take the appropriate precautionary measures before allowing this software to access your sensitive information. Install antivirus software on your computers to be adequately informed of risky websites and apps, detect any malware on your devices, and prevent these cyber attacks from becoming successful.
Businesses that use AI devices, such as sensor-based Internet of Things (IoT) technology, should have a firm data breach recovery plan to protect customers, reassure stakeholders, and proactively comply with any pending legislation that may soon become ratified.
AI, Privacy Invasions, and Data Misuse
Many of the central risks of AI on the internet relate to data collection and sharing. Most digital applications and websites will let you know if and how they use your personal data to adhere to privacy laws. By law, any website that collects user data is required to have a privacy policy. They may also offer a few options to prevent the prolonged storage and use of your personal data for business-related activities. With certain AI apps, your personal information is still subject to analysis and collection, especially since regulatory measures aren’t quite so thorough yet.
When using AI, you risk being constantly surveilled and monitored, with your every search and scroll reviewed and stored for unknown – and potentially unethical – purposes. Though there is an array of data protection laws in place, the lack of regulatory ordinances and laws specifically about AI leaves room for loopholes.
Businesses that offer AI-powered applications can also collect and sell this data to third parties, who then use this data to offer you “personalized” product and service suggestions. These offers are often regarded as inherently predatory and intrusive.
Review all privacy policies before downloading any application or sharing personal information with a website. Don’t forget to pay attention to what permissions you grant for certain apps – we recommend limiting what other information these applications and businesses are privy to on your device.
AI and Misinformation
When using AI-backed technology, users run the risk of coming across outdated, incorrect, or misrepresenting information. For example, generative AI models like ChatGPT are commonly used as research tools for many individuals due to their ease of use. However, generative AI systems must be trained, which is a vulnerability. These models depend on the data they are given, which can lead to biased and inaccurate responses.
The best part of generative AI capabilities is also its most dangerous characteristic – this technology yields nearly infinite creative opportunities. People can create convincing bodies of work – from graphics to videos to full dissertations – that contain a smattering of falsehoods. This can quicken the spread of harmful misinformation, as people are more apt to believe well-constructed AI images. It can take a lot longer to convince them that what they’re seeing isn’t wholly accurate or real.
To prevent this potential misinformation from dominating your decision-making, develop media literacy. Spend some time getting familiar with algorithmic biases and preferences, along with identifying credible sources and getting to know the technology by which you receive your information.
AI offers many boons but just as many dangers. While regulatory organizations may impose restrictions on AI, internet users today must be aware of how to interact with this new technology appropriately. Media literacy, cybersecurity, and awareness can help protect everyone from the misuse of AI.