The decision to regulate AI is of paramount importance due to the far-reaching implications of this rapidly advancing technology. AI has the potential to transform industries, reshape economies, and impact the lives of individuals on a global scale. Without proper regulation, there is a risk of unintended consequences and misuse that can have detrimental effects on society.
Clar Rosso, CEO of (ISC)² shared her perspective on the implications of regulation:
Pros of AI regulation
AI regulations can provide a global framework for ethical practices, information security, consumer rights and other crucial factors by encouraging a safe and secure digital environment. Additionally, regulations provide a framework to remediate harmful or unintended consequences from AI usage, as well as uphold and support existing legal rights and responsibilities for Intellectual Property (IP) creators. Establishing limits around the use of AI is also vital from a national security point-of-view to ensure that our defenses keep pace with innovation and to prevent this powerful technology from falling into the wrong hands.
Cons of AI regulation
The concern is more about the complexities of regulating technology with such varying use. For example, where do you start the enforcement and where do you end it? Especially as we continue to see more interconnectivity across borders, industries and sectors. To make AI regulation successful, harmonization of standards needs to occur not only from governments, regionally and internationally, but also from entities that leverage the output of AI and AI creators. In some cases, overly restrictive regulations may also limit flexibility and stifle innovation, impacting technological investment and advancement.
Why we need regulations
We cannot afford to allow new technologies like AI to enter the market with a 'wild west' mentality, so YES, regulations are reasonable. Regulators must take a proactive, rather than reactive, approach toward AI regulation and prepare for the negative consequences of when AI crosses the threshold of having autonomous control in the physical world, as it will become a conundrum for public safety. Any regulations should be designed to promote accountability, assignability and discoverability. By doing so, we can ensure that the development of AI is responsible, beneficial and, ultimately, enhances our lives. In fact, it would not be dissimilar to the regulation we have seen in other industries, such as the telecom industry.
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