Avoiding the AI pitfalls

AI is changing the way we work, the way we learn and the way business operates.

When using AI, it's crucial to be aware of potential risks and issues. These can be broadly categorised as follows:

1. Bias and Fairness: AI models learn from the data they're trained on. If that data reflects existing societal biases, the AI will perpetuate and even amplify them. This can lead to discriminatory outcomes in areas like hiring, lending, and criminal justice.
Action: Be careful to review the output of every AI chat and make sure that it represents the views and ethics of your business before using it.

2. Data Privacy: If you insert personal identifiable information(PII) or company confidential data into an AI chat and the AI model learns from that data, it can be very challenging or even impossible remove that data.
Action: Never put sensitive data into a public AI chat.

3. Cybersecurity Threats: AI can used to launch sophisticated cyberattacks, including:
+ Deepfakes: Creating realistic fake videos or audio, e.g. speaking in the voice of your manager.
+ Phishing: Generating highly convincing phishing emails.
Action: Be aware of all emails, messages and documents containing links or QR codes. Only click if your sure. Avoid clicking / tapping on a link if there is another mechanism of accessing what you need.

4. Ethical Concerns:
+ Lack of Transparency and Explainability: AI models can make decisions that are difficult or impossible to understand, making it hard to identify and correct errors or biases.
+ AI can be used for harmful purposes, such as creating autonomous weapons or spreading misinformation.
Action: Be careful to review the output of every AI chat and make sure that it represents the views and ethics of your business before using it.

5. Legal and Regulatory Issues:
+ Liability: your business is responsible when an AI system makes a mistake or causes harm.
+ Intellectual Property: AI generated content often raises questions about copyright and intellectual property.
Action: Check that output is accurate and, where the risk is higher make sure you are acting lawfully.