The latest version of the UK’s National Risk Register (NRR) for 2023 has officially classified artificial intelligence (AI) as a security threat for the first time. The NRR is a comprehensive document that outlines the various risks that could pose a significant impact on the UK’s safety, security, or critical systems at a national level. In this latest version, AI is classified as a “chronic risk,” meaning that it poses a threat over the long-term rather than an acute one like a terror attack.
One of the key concerns regarding AI technology is its potential to be used in cyberattacks against the UK. Advanced AI systems have the capability to launch sophisticated cyberattacks, which could have severe consequences for the country’s security. The NRR acknowledges the cybersecurity implications of advancing AI technology, specifically mentioning generative AI as a potential risk.
While AI presents numerous opportunities and advancements in various sectors, there are also a range of potential risks associated with its use. The NRR recognizes this dual nature of AI, stating that “alongside the opportunities, there are a range of potential risks and there is uncertainty about its transformative impact.” The UK government is aware that many strategic advantages, including AI, come with vulnerabilities that need to be addressed.
To ensure the safe and responsible development and use of AI, the UK government has committed to hosting the first global summit on AI Safety. The summit aims to bring together key countries, leading tech companies, and researchers to agree on safety measures and to evaluate and monitor the risks associated with AI. The government’s National AI Strategy, published in 2021, outlines steps for the UK’s transition to an AI-enabled economy, emphasizing the role of research and development in AI growth, and the governance structures that will be required.
In addition, the government’s white paper on AI, published in 2023, commits to establishing a central risk function that will identify and monitor the risks associated with AI. This proactive approach shows the government’s commitment to addressing these risks effectively, allowing the UK to harness the advantages of AI while minimizing potential threats.
The latest NRR serves as a comprehensive risk assessment that helps the UK better prepare and plan for potential risks. Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden emphasized the importance of this assessment, stating that it allows the government and its partners to develop robust plans and be ready for any potential threats.
The specific details of how AI could pose a threat to the UK are not extensively discussed in the NRR. However, it does mention concerns about disinformation and potential threats to the economy. As AI continues to evolve and become more integrated into various aspects of society, it is crucial for governments to stay vigilant and proactive in addressing the risks associated with this technology. Through ongoing assessments like the NRR and initiatives like the global summit on AI Safety, the UK aims to ensure the responsible and secure development and deployment of AI technologies.