OpenAI chief concerned that AI might compromise elections

The CEO of OpenAI, the startup behind ChatGPT, told a Senate panel on Tuesday the use of artificial intelligence to interfere with election integrity is a "significant area of concern", adding that it is an area that needs regulation.

"I think we also need rules, guidelines, on what’s expected in terms of disclosure from a company providing a model," Sam Altman said about elections and AI, adding "I am nervous about it."

Speaking before Congress for the first time, Altman suggested that in general, the US should consider licensing and testing requirements for development of AI models.

Also Read | ChatGPT mistakes Japan’s chief AI advocate for prime minister

In written testimony, Altman advocated for licensing or registration requirements for AI with certain capabilities. That way, the US can hold companies to safety standards, for instance testing systems before their release and publishing the results.

For months, companies large and small have raced to bring increasingly dexterous AI to market, throwing endless data and billions of dollars at the challenge. Some critics fear the technology will exacerbate societal harms, among them prejudice and misinformation, while others warn AI could end humanity itself.

Also Read | ChatGPT mistakes Japan’s chief AI advocate for prime minister

The White House has convened top technology CEOs including Altman to address AI. US lawmakers likewise are seeking action to further the technology's benefits and national security while limiting its misuse. Consensus is far from certain.

An OpenAI staffer recently proposed the creation of a US licensing agency for AI, which could be called the Office for AI Safety and Infrastructure Security, or OASIS, Reuters has reported.

OpenAI is backed by Microsoft Corp. Altman is also calling for global cooperation on AI and incentives for safety compliance.