Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Blockchain are two of the most transformative technologies of our time, each with the potential to revolutionize industries and reshape society. When combined with the power of Large Language Models (LLMs), they create a potent synergy that is both exciting and concerning.
Some of most notable solutions and frameworks are: TensorFlow, PyTorch, Scikit-learn, Ethereum, Hyperledger Fabric, Corda…
Developer utilize different solutions in a different ways. As an example, web developers can create blockchain network for news portals where changing specific info on one node can be replicated to millions of sites all over the world. Another developer can use same BlockChain framework in payment system or contract signing. AI can be utilized in video and graphic technology for detection, creation, manipulation or review of big data sets. Never before information security was important like today to protect, guide and set boundaries of usage. I will note a few time during the text how we need to learn, understand and accept the new norms that transform tech industry, but we must always utilize critical thinking. For us in cybersecurity and information security, it is important to address the risk and it is so obvious that the risk skyrocketed with the introduction of these technologies.
The image source is from European Union lawmakers signed the artificial intelligence (AI) act in June 2024
Here’s a breakdown of how each technology can be used for manipulation:
AI
- Deepfakes: AI can create hyperrealistic videos and audio that depict people saying or doing things they never did. This can be used to spread misinformation, discredit individuals, or even manipulate elections.
- Sentiment Analysis: AI can analyze vast amounts of data to identify and exploit emotional triggers, tailoring information to specific individuals or groups to sway their opinions.
- Automated Propaganda: AI-powered bots can generate and spread misleading or false information at scale, overwhelming fact-checking efforts and manipulating public discourse.
- Misinformation and Disinformation: AI can be used to generate synthetic media which can be used to manipulate public opinion and spread false narratives.
- Cyberattacks: AI can be used to develop more sophisticated and targeted cyberattacks, such as phishing attacks, malware, and ransomware.
- Surveillance and Mass Surveillance: AI-powered surveillance systems can be used to monitor individuals’ activities and infringe on their privacy rights.
- Social Manipulation: AI can be used to manipulate people’s emotions and behaviors, for example, through targeted advertising and social media algorithms.
- Autonomous Weapons: As mentioned earlier, the development of autonomous weapons systems raises serious ethical concerns.
- Bias and Discrimination: AI systems can inherit biases present in the data they are trained on, which can lead to discriminatory outcomes in areas such as hiring, lending, and criminal justice.
Blockchain
- Unverifiable Sources: Blockchain can be used to create a false sense of trust and transparency. Malicious actors can create fake identities and manipulate information within a blockchain, making it difficult to distinguish between genuine and fabricated content.
- Manipulation of Consensus: By controlling a significant portion of the nodes in a blockchain network, attackers can manipulate the consensus mechanism and alter the recorded information.
LLMs
- Misinformation Generation: LLMs can generate highly convincing but false narratives, articles, and reports. This can be used to spread disinformation and create confusion.
- Targeted Propaganda: LLMs can be used to generate personalized content tailored to specific individuals or groups, manipulating their beliefs and opinions.
Combined Manipulation
The combination of these technologies amplifies their potential for manipulation:
- Deepfakes on Blockchain: AI-generated deepfakes can be stored on a blockchain, making them appear more credible and difficult to dispute.
- LLM-Powered Propaganda: LLMs can generate massive amounts of targeted propaganda, which can then be spread through social media and other online platforms.
Mitigating the Risks
While these technologies pose significant risks, there are steps that can be taken to mitigate them:
- Digital Literacy: Educating the public about the potential for manipulation and how to identify fake content.
- AI Ethics and Regulation: Developing ethical guidelines and regulations for the development and use of AI.
- Blockchain Transparency: Ensuring that blockchain networks are transparent and accountable.
- Fact-Checking and Verification: Investing in robust fact-checking and verification tools and processes.
- International Cooperation: Collaborating with other countries to develop international standards and regulations for AI and blockchain technologies.
By understanding the potential for manipulation and taking proactive steps to mitigate the risks, we can harness the power of these technologies for good while protecting ourselves from their misuse.