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The AI pioneer cautioned that the UK’s strategy for regulating AI displays a “total lack of comprehension” and may present numerous security risks.
According to Professor Stuart Russell, the decision of the government to not implement strict laws for regulating artificial intelligence was a mistake. This increases the potential for issues such as fraud, disinformation, and bioterrorism. Britain is currently hesitant to create stricter regulations, fearing it may hinder growth. This is in contrast to the EU, US, and China.
According to Professor Russell, there has been a long-standing belief among companies that government regulation hinders innovation, but this is not accurate.
He stated that industries that are regulated, such as aviation, contribute to long-term innovation and growth by providing safe and beneficial products and services.
The researcher has previously advocated for the implementation of a “kill switch” in the software to detect any misuse of the technology and prevent potential disasters for humanity.
The previous year, the computer science professor at the University of California, Berkeley, who originally hails from Britain, emphasized the importance of a worldwide agreement to oversee AI. He cautioned that without regulation, advancements in language learning models and deepfake technology could potentially be exploited for fraudulent activities, spreading false information, and even bioterrorism.
Although the UK organized a worldwide AI conference in the previous year, the government of Rishi Sunak has stated that it will not establish specific AI laws in the near future and will instead opt for a more lenient approach.
According to reports, the government plans to release a set of criteria that must be met in order to enact new laws regarding artificial intelligence.
According to the Financial Times, government officials will release guidelines in the next few weeks outlining when they would implement restrictions on advanced AI systems developed by major companies like OpenAI and Google.
The UK takes a careful stance on regulating the industry, which differs from actions taken globally. The EU has adopted an extensive AI Act that imposes stringent responsibilities on major AI corporations developing high-risk technologies.
On the other hand, President Joe Biden of the United States has mandated a executive order requiring AI companies to disclose their efforts in addressing risks to both national security and consumer privacy. Similarly, China has offered extensive instructions on the advancement of AI, highlighting the importance of regulating content.
Source: independent.co.uk