Is AI too risky for the Intelligence Community?

Artificial intelligence (AI) is a powerful technology that can enhance the capabilities and efficiency of the intelligence community (IC) in areas such as data analysis, threat detection, decision making, and automation. However, AI also poses significant risks and challenges that need to be addressed and mitigated by the IC and its stakeholders. Some of the main risks of using AI in the IC are:

- AI failures and errors: AI systems may malfunction, produce inaccurate or misleading results, or be vulnerable to cyberattacks or sabotage. These failures and errors could have serious consequences for the IC's missions, operations, and credibility. For example, an AI system that misidentifies a target or a threat could lead to false alarms, missed opportunities, or wrongful actions.

- AI ethics and accountability: AI systems may raise ethical dilemmas and questions of accountability for the IC and its users. For example, how can the IC ensure that AI systems respect human rights, privacy, and dignity? How can the IC ensure that AI systems are transparent, explainable, and auditable? How can the IC ensure that AI systems are fair, unbiased, and inclusive? Who is responsible for the outcomes and impacts of AI systems on individuals, groups, and society?

- AI competition and conflict: AI systems may increase the competition and conflict among states and non-state actors in the global arena. For example, how can the IC cope with the rapid development and diffusion of AI technologies by potential adversaries? How can the IC prevent or respond to the use of AI for malicious purposes, such as espionage, sabotage, propaganda, or warfare? How can the IC foster cooperation and trust with allies and partners on AI issues?

Source: Conversation with Bing, 02/02/2024

(1) AI Risk Management Framework | NIST. https://www.nist.gov/itl/ai-risk-management-framework.

(2) Publications Library - National Artificial Intelligence Initiative. https://www.ai.gov/publications/.

(3) The National Artificial Intelligence Initiative (NAII). https://www.ai.gov/.