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PSA: Safeguarding the Public and our Future from Abusive AI-Generated Content

SpeakerS:

Teresa Hutson, Corporate Vice President, Technology for Fundamental Rights, Microsoft
Raffi Krikorian, Chief Technology Officer & Managing Director, Emerson Collective

With Core Programming Sponsor

“That's a question I think about all the time at Microsoft: How do you get the input from all the people who are using your technology in ways that you anticipate and then also don't necessarily anticipate?” Teresa Hutson
“I really think it starts with education; I think it's upon people like Microsoft, people like me, to figure out how to actually communicate to people the nuances of all this technology they're using. I think we need to align on what our values really are, and I think that's actually been one of the things that we've been missing.” Raffi Krikorian

Key takeaways:

  • Engage conversations about AI and its impact on society: Many people feel that technological advancements are inevitable and beyond their control, but they should be made aware that they have a voice and can influence the direction of these technologies.
  • Dual nature to AI technology: While they can be used to enhance communication, assist individuals with disabilities, and drive economic growth, they can also be misused for fraud, harming children, and creating non-consensual synthetic imagery. Balancing the benefits and risks of AI requires collective effort from technology companies, governments, and society.
  • Challenges posed by AI from the grassroots level: Collaborative efforts between tech companies, regulators, and the public are essential to create effective solutions. Examples like Finland’s nationwide AI education initiative demonstrate the potential impact of engaging the public in understanding AI.
  • Lack of federal data privacy legislation: There is a need for legal frameworks that can keep up with technological advancements and protect the public. There is a general consensus on certain harmful uses of AI that should be universally banned, such as using AI for fraud, defrauding people, harming children, and creating non-consensual synthetic imagery; however, in the absence of regulation these norms lack enforcement measures.
  • Socioeconomic and gender divides: These can be exacerbated by unchecked technological advancements, which can threaten wealth growth, deepen gender divides, and impact workforce development.

Action items:

  • Promote AI literacy and education: Support and participate in initiatives that aim to improve public understanding of AI and technology. Encourage educational programs that target all age groups to foster a more informed society.
  • Advocate for responsible technology use: Engage in community discussions about the ethical use of AI. Collaborate with local organizations to raise awareness about the potential abuses of AI and how to prevent them.
  • Support policy and legislation efforts: Advocate for the development and implementation of federal data privacy laws and regulations that address the misuse of AI technologies. Engage with policymakers to express the importance of legal protections against harmful applications of AI.
  • Encourage collaboration between stakeholders: Facilitate conversations between tech companies, government regulators, and the public to develop a shared understanding and approach to AI governance.
  • Address socioeconomic and gender divides: Promote initiatives that aim to close the socioeconomic and gender gaps exacerbated by technology. Support policies and programs that enhance digital infrastructure and connectivity, ensuring equitable access to technological advancements. 

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