Task Force Lima Launched to Study Generative AI in Defense
Yesterday, the US Department of Defense (DoD) announced the establishment of Task Force Lima, a generative artificial intelligence task force that will focus on employing AI technology across the DoD in a strategic and secure manner. The task force, directed by Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks, aims to ensure national security, minimize risks, and responsibly integrate AI technologies.
Task Force Lima will be led by the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) in collaboration with the offices of the under secretaries of defense for policy, research and engineering, acquisition and sustainment, intelligence and security, and the DoD chief information office. The CDAO, Craig Martell, emphasized the importance of adopting generative AI models while considering protective measures and mitigating national security risks. Martell also highlighted the need to anticipate how adversaries might employ this technology to disrupt the US’s use of AI-based solutions.
The task force has set a timeline to provide a recommendation and plan for governance and oversight by the next quarter of the fiscal year. The DoD recognizes the transformative power of generative AI and aims to lead the charge in AI innovation with foresight, responsibility, and a deep understanding of the broader implications for national security.
US Lawmakers Call for FCC Regulation of IoT Devices
The US House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party has written a letter to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) urging the agency to take action on the security of Internet of Things (IoT) devices. In particular, the committee expressed concerns about the security of connectivity module devices manufactured by Chinese-based companies Quectel and Fibocom. These modules are used in many critical US operations, including smart devices, drones, and body cameras worn by emergency responders.
The committee recommends that the FCC conduct an investigation and consider banning the use of Chinese-made cellular modules due to national security threats. The security of IoT devices is a matter of interest for the FCC, which recently issued a proposed voluntary cybersecurity labeling program for such devices. With the rapid growth of IoT devices, consumers need tools to understand the relative security risks and cybersecurity standards of the devices they purchase.
US DHS Report Highlights Dangers of SIM Swapping
The Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Cyber Safety Review Board released a report examining a series of high-profile cyberattacks conducted by the Lapsus$ threat group. The report showcases the dangers of SIM swapping and how cybercriminals can exploit SMS-based multifactor authentication. The board recommends that the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Trade Commission closely monitor SIM swapping and require telecommunications providers to report these attacks.
To mitigate the risks associated with SIM swapping, the report suggests that telecoms adopt secure-by-default-passwordless solutions instead of relying on SMS and voice-based multifactor authentication. Additionally, the board urges the federal government to develop strategies and guidelines to support telecom companies in implementing these solutions.
NSA Director Advocates for Section 702
The ongoing debate over the renewal of Section 702 of the US’s Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act has gained attention recently. Army General Paul Nakasone, director of the National Security Agency (NSA) and commander of US Cyber Command, voiced his support for reauthorization at an event hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Section 702 allows intelligence agencies to conduct warrantless searches of foreign communications.
Nakasone emphasized the importance of Section 702, describing it as the most important authority that enables insights for policymakers and warnings for military commanders. While the focus of Section 702 is monitoring foreign nationals outside the US, communications involving American citizens can also be swept up in the surveillance process. A review of the measure conducted by the President’s Intelligence Advisory Board acknowledged past misuse by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Privacy advocates argue that Section 702 puts human rights at risk, but the Biden administration has remained firm in its support for the measure’s renewal.
In conclusion, Task Force Lima’s establishment highlights the US DoD’s commitment to leading the charge in AI innovation. The call for FCC regulation of IoT devices underscores the importance of ensuring their security, particularly in critical US operations. The report on SIM swapping emphasizes the need for improved security measures and closer monitoring by federal agencies. Lastly, the ongoing debate over Section 702 shows the complexities surrounding national security and privacy rights. As these issues continue to evolve, it remains crucial to strike a balance between innovation, security, and privacy.