The US Department of Internal Security (DHS) has established its first operational group in artificial intelligence (AI) to protect against cyber threats generated by rapid advancements in AI technology. Alejandro Major, a representative of the department, has warned that “while enemies of the United States will use the latest AI technologies, the evolution of the threat landscape will accelerate.”
The AI operational group has been created to improve the safety and integrity of supply chains, with a particular focus on trade. This will be achieved through goods inspections to detect those made using slave labor, as well as through risk management measures.
Critical infrastructure, including power and water supply networks, are potential targets of government hackers, and AI will be utilized to protect these systems. The operational group will also contribute to efforts against drug smuggling by detecting supplies and identifying the flow of ingredients for drug production.
Alejandro Major has expressed excitement about the potential for new discoveries through generative AI, but he also acknowledged the dangers of AI errors and the risk of malicious use of the technology. The establishment of this operational group demonstrates a commitment to harnessing the benefits of AI while mitigating the risks.