OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has warned that AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, could be misused to create pandemics like COVID-19. He also stated that it is crucial to mitigate this risk and focus on the safe use of AI. Experts have also cautioned that while AI can aid in biological research, it could prove dangerous in the wrong hands.
AI Security Alert: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has stated that AI chatbots, like ChatGPT, could be misused to engineer pandemics similar to COVID-19. Altman made these remarks on a TV show and mentioned that measures to reduce this risk are under consideration. In light of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, experts also acknowledge that AI can assist in biological research and medical innovation, but its misuse could lead to severe health threats.
Altman's Statement on a TV Show
During a TV show, Altman was asked about what aspect of AI worries him the most. He clarified that the misuse of AI to engineer pandemics like COVID-19 is a significant concern for him. He also mentioned that efforts are underway to mitigate this risk and ensure its safe use. It's worth remembering that the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020 brought the entire world to a standstill and claimed millions of lives.
Experts Also Issue Warnings
Prior to Altman, several experts had also warned that AI tools could be used to mimic genetic engineering processes or create novel protein structures. While its appropriate use can accelerate medical research and the development of new drugs, it could be perilous in the wrong hands. Recently, the CEO of DeepMind also stated that the advent of AI will enable research that would have taken years to be completed in just a few months, thereby increasing the pace of innovation in the medical field.
