The potentially devastating impact of false and misleading information fueled by advanced artificial intelligence (AI) has been identified as the top risk to the global economy, according to the World Economic Forum’s latest Global Risks Report.
Released on Wednesday, the “Global Risks Report 2024” highlights the dangers associated with AI-generated misinformation and disinformation, ranking them as more significant risks than climate change, war, and economic weakness in the top 10 risks list for the next two years. The report, which surveyed experts, industry leaders, and policymakers, showcases how technology advancements are exacerbating existing problems and creating new ones.
Of particular concern are AI chatbots like ChatGPT, capable of generating sophisticated synthetic content that manipulates individuals without regard for their expertise. The report stresses the urgent need to address this issue, especially as several countries are heading towards elections in the coming years. The ability to leverage AI for deepfakes and large-scale misinformation campaigns could further divide societies and undermine democratic processes.
Carolina Klint, a risk management leader at Marsh, warns that AI breakthroughs will disrupt the risk outlook for organizations, with many struggling to react to threats arising from misinformation, disintermediation, and strategic miscalculation. Building resilience at organizational, national, and international levels, as well as fostering greater cooperation between the public and private sectors, will be crucial in navigating this rapidly evolving risk landscape.
In addition to misinformation, AI also presents concerns in terms of cybersecurity. The automation of phishing attempts and the creation of advanced malware are facilitated by AI, increasing the risk of cyberattacks. Furthermore, AI can perpetuate biases by polluting the data used to train other AI systems, making it incredibly challenging to reverse the effects.
The consequences of AI-driven misinformation and disinformation extend beyond social polarization and societal division. False information could be employed to cast doubt on the legitimacy of elected governments, leading to erosion of democratic processes. The dangers also extend to cyberattacks, as even those with limited expertise can leverage AI to carry out malicious activities.
These grave risks identified in the Global Risks Report 2024 will be discussed at the upcoming Davos meetings, where leaders from technology companies and the AI industry will be present. It is imperative to address these risks collectively and proactively to safeguard the global economy and ensure the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies.
The source of the article is from the blog girabetim.com.br