An introduction to Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an emerging technology that will play an increasingly influential role in the everyday life of Australians. In response to the rising interest and discussion around AI, highlighted globally at the UK’s 2023 AI Safety Summit, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) has expanded its AI guidance to help Australian individuals and organisations engage with AI systems in a secure way. The primary purpose is to provide readers with an understanding of what AI is and how it may impact the digital systems and services they use. In addition to this, we also encourage you to read ASD’s Ethical AI framework, which outlines ethical principles for the implementation and use of AI.
What is AI?
AI is the theory and development of computer systems able to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition, decision-making, and translation between languages. Modern AI is usually built using machine learning algorithms. These algorithms find complex patterns in data, which can be used to form rules.
What mitigation considerations exist?
There are steps that government, industry and end users can take to engage with AI securely. Answering the questions posed below will help individuals and organisations understand how they can benefit from using AI while still mitigating its risks.
When using AI technologies, particularly generative AI, Premium IT recommends applying the same basic security principles as they would when using any online tool. Ask yourself:
Does this system have a good reputation?
Do I need to share this information?
How will the system use my information? What does their privacy policy say?
What can I do to ensure the output is accurate and appropriate for use?
For further guidance on how individuals can stay secure online, refer to ASD’s Personal Security Guides.
Further information
For further guidance on engaging with AI securely and responsibly, email [email protected] or give us a call on 08 9418 4119.