United States President Joe Biden has taken a significant step in advancing the development, safety, and security of artificial intelligence (AI) by issuing an executive order on October 30. This order establishes new standards for AI safety and security, aiming to address various concerns associated with AI technology.
Biden’s order builds upon previous actions taken in the industry, including commitments from 15 leading companies in AI safety. The new standards outlined in the order have six primary points, with additional plans for the ethical use of AI in the government, privacy practices for citizens, and steps for protecting consumer privacy.
The first standard requires developers of the most powerful AI systems to share safety test results and critical information with the government. This transparency is crucial in ensuring that AI systems are developed and deployed responsibly, minimizing potential risks. By sharing safety test results, developers can work closely with the government to address any concerns and ensure compliance with established safety protocols.
The second standard involves the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) developing standardized tools and tests to ensure AI’s safety, security, and trustworthiness. These tools and tests will help evaluate the effectiveness and reliability of AI systems, enabling consistent and rigorous testing procedures across the industry.
Recognizing the risks associated with AI-enabled fraud and deception, another standard aims to establish standards and best practices for detecting AI-generated content and authenticating official content. This will help mitigate potential harm caused by misinformation and safeguard the public from malicious activities.
Additionally, the order focuses on advancements in equity and civil rights in AI, emphasizing the responsible use of AI to benefit consumers and monitoring its impact on the job market. It recognizes the importance of ensuring that AI is developed and deployed in a manner that promotes fairness and equal opportunities for all individuals.
The order also addresses the privacy risks associated with AI. It emphasizes that without proper safeguards, AI can pose a significant threat to Americans’ privacy. AI has the potential to extract, identify, and exploit personal data, making data protection and privacy a paramount concern. To tackle this issue, President Biden officially called on Congress to pass bipartisan data privacy legislation, prioritizing federal support for the development and research of privacy techniques and technologies.
Furthermore, the order focuses on the United States’ involvement in AI regulations worldwide. The US recently joined six other G7 countries in agreeing on a voluntary code of conduct for AI developers. This international cooperation highlights the importance of establishing global standards and guidelines for the responsible development and use of AI.
Within the government itself, the order sets plans to release clear standards to protect rights and safety, improve AI procurement, and strengthen AI deployment. Additionally, it aims to provide AI training for all employees in relevant fields, ensuring that government officials are well-equipped to understand and utilize AI technology effectively.
President Biden’s executive order follows previous efforts by US Senators to discuss regulations for AI technology. Classified meetings and AI Insight Forums provided a platform for top AI experts to share insights and perspectives on the industry’s future.
In conclusion, President Joe Biden’s executive order signals the US government’s commitment to promoting safe, secure, and trustworthy AI. The new standards outlined in the order reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing various concerns related to AI technology, including safety, security, privacy, and ethical use. By establishing these standards, the government aims to foster responsible AI development and deployment, and ensure that AI technology benefits society as a whole.