At the World Economic Forum, FBI Director Christopher Wray expressed his concern about the impact of Beijing’s AI program on national security. He asserted that China’s AI isn’t constrained by laws, as well as its significantly larger hacking program relative to other nations. Mr. Wray also warned of the risk posed by machine learning being used to increase the capabilities of state-sponsored hackers in Beijing.
A sentiment echoed by Wray, AI can be used to benefit or harm the world similarly to nuclear technology. The prospect causes an emotional response of simultaneous awe and fear that is shared among many tech experts. As Beijing continues to spread its economic influence and military power internationally, Washington typically views it as a long-term security threat.
Matthew Wray and Matthew Prince both spoke on a panel to discuss China’s AI program. Wray highlighted the issue of intellectual property theft, while also pointing out that this same program is used to advance repression beyond mainland China. Additionally, Prince shared his optimism remarking that there are more “good guys” than bad guys in the space.
Prince has plainly stated that those possessing the most data will come out ahead in the AI race. Generally, Western countries tend to impose tighter restrictions on collected data than those of China. “The good guys” are limited by law and international norms while this isn’t a limitation for the “bad guys”, thus giving them a notable edge. Nevertheless, Prince and Wray believe that collaboration among the righteous is their best defense when it comes to staying one step ahead of malicious intent. As Wray summed up, “When we’re all working together, they’re no match.”
