DISCUSSION REPLY TO

Good evening class! This week we discuss how the private sector contributes to and how they can aid and defend against the malicious use of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Technology advancements have been growing at a considerable rate. While technology serves us and makes life easier in various ways, technology has also become a threat as this technology could be used as a weapon against us. Private sector partners are vital to our nation's ability to expand our technological capabilities as many of the most brilliant technicians and innovative thinkers in the world reside in the private sector. Therefore, their interests and contributions to our nation should be protected with the highest regard. Recently, we have seen the rise of AI which refers to automated, machine-based technologies that can make predictions, recommendations, or decisions. Use of AI will be an inevitable part of the ongoing technology advancement race that can transform global economies, effect U.S. national security, and impact American citizens in their daily lives. Additionally, AI will also be impactful on critical infrastructure sectors like manufacturing, financial services, transportation, healthcare, energy, and food and agriculture. The private sector is leading in the advancement of AI and as these capabilities expand, the risks soon follow. Risks with AI can include compromised or poorly designed systems and adversarial use. Adversaries can use AI to conduct network intrusions, threats to critical infrastructure, deep-fakes, big data processing, and misinformation campaigns. Though the private sector may be unintentionally aiding the malicious use of AI, they are also contributing to the ability to aid and defend against it. The private sector is currently coordinating with The Department of Homeland Security to share and inform them on the state of AI research and development and the potential impacts of cutting-edge AI. Additionally, the private sector is engaging in exchange programs to teach DHS employees how to implement the technology.