The World Economic Forum Global Risks Report 2024 has identified artificial intelligence-powered misinformation and disinformation as the biggest short-term global threat [1]. This report [1] [2], based on input from 1,200 risk experts [3], policy-makers [3], and industry leaders [3], highlights the ease of access to AI models that enable the creation of falsified information and synthetic content [2]. It also raises concerns about concentrated AI power [1], cyber threats [1], and low-cost crime havens [1].
Description
The report emphasizes the ease of access to AI models that enable the creation of falsified information and synthetic content [2]. It also highlights concerns about concentrated AI power in the hands of a few [1], as well as the rising tide of cyber threats and low-cost crime havens [1]. Efforts to regulate online disinformation may not keep up with the pace of development, and the vulnerability of governments [3], businesses [3], and society to AI-generated fake narratives will be a key topic of discussion at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2024 [3]. The report predicts a challenging outlook for the next two years that is expected to worsen over time [3]. President Biden has issued an executive order on AI [2], emphasizing the need to harness its power for good while protecting against potential risks [2]. The order requires companies developing AI models that could pose threats to national security [2], economic security [2], or public health to notify the federal government during model training [2].
Conclusion
The impact of artificial intelligence-powered misinformation and disinformation is a significant concern. The report highlights the potential harm caused by the creation of falsified information and synthetic content through easily accessible AI models. Concentrated AI power [1], cyber threats [1], and low-cost crime havens further exacerbate the risks. Efforts to regulate online disinformation may struggle to keep up with the rapid pace of AI development. The vulnerability of governments [3], businesses [3], and society to AI-generated fake narratives will be a crucial topic of discussion at the World Economic Forum [3]. President Biden’s executive order on AI acknowledges the need to harness its power while safeguarding against potential risks. Companies developing AI models with potential threats to national security [2], economic security [2], or public health are required to notify the federal government. It is clear that addressing the challenges posed by AI-powered misinformation and disinformation will be an ongoing priority.
References
[1] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/top-wef-global-risk-list-2024-cyber/
[2] https://news.yahoo.com/ai-powered-misinformation-poses-largest-153418709.html
[3] https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366565893/Davos-2024-AI-generated-disinformation-poses-threat-to-elections-says-World-Economic-Forum
