Steve Wozniak, the co-founder of Apple, has been actively engaging with the media to raise awareness about the potential dangers associated with generative artificial intelligence (AI). In interviews with both the BBC and Fox News, he emphasized the need for caution regarding the negative repercussions of AI. Wozniak specifically highlighted the risks of personal data misuse and expressed concerns that AI could aid scammers in creating increasingly sophisticated scams, ranging from identity theft and phishing to password cracking and more.
The term “AI” refers to computer systems with the ability to perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence. This encompasses chatbots that can comprehend inquiries and provide responses resembling human-like answers, as well as systems that can identify objects in images.
AI Abuse by Bad Actors
We’re getting hit with so much spam. Things trying to take over our accounts and our passwords, trying to trick us into them
Steve Wozniak, in recent interview on Fox News
Wozniak expressed worry regarding the potential misuse of technologies like ChatGPT, which could be employed to create highly deceptive fraudulent emails, among other things. Although he acknowledges the benefits that such technology can offer, he also harbors concerns about its potential exploitation by malicious individuals, perceiving it as a genuine threat. Security experts share similar concerns.
In business sectors, 53% of decision-makers hold the belief that AI will assist attackers in constructing email scams that are even more persuasive. Recently, BlackBerry warned that a successful attack credited to ChatGPT will emerge within the next 12 months.
Slow down on AI Development
AI is so intelligent, it’s open to the bad players, the ones that want to trick you about who they are
Steve Wozniak
During an interview with the BBC, Wozniak emphasized the importance of clearly labeling AI-generated content and stressed the need for regulations within the industry. As a pioneer in computing, he joined Elon Musk in signing a letter in March that advocated for a temporary halt in the advancement of the most potent AI models.
According to him, the accountability for any content generated by Artificial Intelligence and subsequently shared with the public should lie with the individuals or entities responsible for its publication.
A human really has to take the responsibility for what is generated by AI.
Steve Wozniak
He advocates for regulations that would hold big tech companies accountable for their actions, as he believes they often believe they can escape consequences.
I think the forces that drive for money usually win out, which is sort of sad.
Steve Wozniak
However, he expressed doubt & skepticism about the ability of regulators to effectively implement such regulations.
Regulations for AI
Governments are grappling with the question of whether AI tools require regulation and, if so, how to implement it. However, this regulatory process is unlikely to keep pace with the rapid evolution of AI. Recently, the Biden administration introduced a voluntary set of AI rules aimed at addressing safety, privacy, and initiating discussions regarding the genuine and existential threats posed by AI technologies like ChatGPT.
The White House stated, “AI is one of the most powerful technologies of our time, but in order to seize the opportunities it presents, we must first mitigate its risks. President Biden has emphasized the importance of prioritizing people and communities by supporting responsible innovation that serves the public good, while safeguarding our society, security, and economy.”
In the UK, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is conducting a review of the AI market. Sarah Cardell, the CEO of CMA, stated, “Our objective is to facilitate the development of this rapidly expanding technology in a manner that ensures open, competitive markets and effective consumer protection.”
However, the UK government appears inclined towards a hands-off approach to the use of AI technology.
Technology can’t be stopped
As a computing pioneer, Steve Wozniak draws parallels between missed opportunities during the early days of the internet and the present-day architects of Artificial Intelligence (AI). While acknowledging that halting technological progress is not feasible, he emphasizes the significance of adequately educating individuals to identify fraudulent activities and malicious attempts aimed at obtaining personal information.
In a recent statement to investors, Apple CEO Tim Cook highlighted the importance of a cautious and deliberate approach to AI integration, expressing the company’s commitment to thoughtfully incorporating AI into their products.
