Automated Surveillance (Loss of Privacy)
We leave behind a lot of digital traces on the web. Connecting the dots is difficult and time-consuming, but artificial intelligence can now make this process cheaper. Large language models can autonomously search the web and are capable enough to analyze vast amounts of data and uncover interesting details. This can be used to discover information that would otherwise be very costly to obtain.
- Find information about where a person is likely to be at a particular time. This could be used to track down dissidents or plan assassinations.
- Link anonymous online accounts to real-world identities. This could be used to identify whistleblowers.
In September 2024, a group of students created an application that displays information about strangers, such as their names, relatives, and other personal details, through augmented reality, using facial recognition and LLMs.
Why Is a Pause Necessary?
Artificial intelligence is advancing at an unprecedented pace. The most powerful systems are being built by a small number of companies and countries, and the race for technological supremacy can put pressure to prioritize development over safety.
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