AI a game changer but beware how it is used

AS declared by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, artificial intelligence is a vital tool and a game changer in security operations, “Saifuddin: Address AI ethics issues” (The Star, Jan 21).

Yes, AI is a vital tool and a game changer if it is used for the needs and benefits of humanity. But it is potentially dangerous when used for nefarious purposes like spread disinformation, misinformation and deepfakes!

These are significant threats to global peace and security as they have the potential to disrupt societies, destabilise governments, and cause conflicts.

As we are aware, deepfakes are images, videos or audio that are edited or generated using AI tools, and which may depict real people, including world leaders.

In Malaysia, we have seen video clips featuring public figures in social media postings, inviting citizens to invest in fake bitcoin or pyramid schemes.

For example, in March last year, Malaysians were alerted to the existence of the AI-edited video clip showing Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim “promoting” an investment scheme with lucrative returns.

In the interest of the people and country, and peace and security, the government must come hard on those bent on spreading misinformation, disinformation and deepfakes.

DATUK WEE BENG GEE

Petaling Jaya