However, with all the AI, research indicates that generative AI technology is not widely used to create malicious code. Both Trend Micro and Mandiant research came to this conclusion. While some crooks are interested in using source-suggesting ML models, AI will not provide the shortcut a miscreant might hope for, and its take-up among cyber-criminals is on par with the rest of the technology world. The technology is used to craft text and media to lure marks to phishing pages and produce content for disinformation campaigns, but not so much for automating malware development.
It’s also probably not going to take over jobs. According to a study by the International Labour Organization, generative AI is unlikely to take over most people’s jobs completely but will automate a portion of their duties, with clerical work being the most affected. The study warns that the impact on affected workers could still be “brutal” and calls for policymakers to address the technological changes. Sectors most likely impacted include those linked to image production, text generation, sound and animation, 3D creations, and more detailed clerical work.
A new report by PrivacyHawk reveals that Americans are extremely concerned about data, privacy, and the rapid development of AI. Among the results, 92% want a national privacy law, 80% are concerned that their personal data is being used to train AI models, and 48% say AI will negatively impact them personally. Only 5.7% of Americans are not concerned about their personal data risk. The report suggests that new federal privacy legislation may be needed to address these concerns.
In the workplace, A PwC survey of US business executives found that both bosses and workers are concerned about emerging technology, but for different reasons. Leaders are worried about getting returns on tech investments and training workers on new technology, while employees are nervous that these new tools will put them out of work. About 75% of business executives believe their employees are fearful technology will take away their jobs. Despite these concerns, nearly half of execs plan to invest in AI in the next 12 to 18 months. Those leaders are worried about measuring the investment, with 88% citing it as a top challenge; the cost of adoption and training talent were also cited as significant challenges.
Good news we have slightly less to fear from criminals, although the use in phishing alone is worrisome. A theme is quickly emerging – AI will augment workers, not replace them. We have concerns about how data is used in the models that remain to be answered, and like all technologies, measuring the investment will be a differentiator. For those of us in technology services, this should put our minds at ease. We’ve seen this movie before.