DHS releases framework for safe and secure deployment of AI in critical infrastructure
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has published a set of recommendations for the safe and secure development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in critical infrastructure, the “Artificial Intelligence in Critical Infrastructure Roles and Responsibilities Framework” (the “Framework”). ) was announced.
This first-of-its-kind resource will support the AI supply chain, including cloud and computing providers, AI developers, critical infrastructure owners and operators, as well as civil society and public sector organizations that protect society. Developed by and for organizations at each level. and advocate for consumers. The Artificial Intelligence Safety and Security Committee (the “Committee”), a public-private advisory committee established by DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas, is seeking clarity on how each layer of the AI supply chain can play a role. We recognized the need for guidelines. AI is being safely and securely deployed in America’s critical infrastructure. This product is the culmination of extensive dialogue and discussion among our Board of Directors, comprised of AI leaders representing industry, academia, civil society, and the public sector. This report complements other work undertaken by the government on AI safety, including guidance from the AI Safety Institute on managing the risk of widespread misuse and accidents.
America’s critical infrastructure—the systems that power our homes and businesses, provide clean water, enable safe travel, and facilitate the digital networks that connect us—is vital to national and global security and stability. It’s essential. These sectors are increasingly adopting AI to improve service offerings, build resilience, and combat threats. For example, AI is helping to quickly detect earthquakes and predict aftershocks, prevent power outages and other power interruptions, and sort and distribute mail to American homes. Their use is risky, and vulnerabilities introduced by implementations of this technology may expose critical systems to failure or manipulation by malicious actors. Given the increasing interconnectedness of these systems, their disruption could have devastating consequences for homeland security.
“AI offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve the strength and resiliency of America’s critical infrastructure, and we must seize it while minimizing potential harm. If widely adopted, this framework will go a long way toward ensuring the safety and security of critical services that provide clean water, reliable electricity, internet access, and more.” Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas said. “The choices organizations and individuals involved in developing AI make today will determine the impact this technology will have on tomorrow’s critical infrastructure. I am grateful to the AI Safety and Security Committee and its members for their diverse expertise. Thank you to each member for this extraordinary technology. Drawing on my own real-world experience in developing, deploying, and promoting responsible use, I created these guidelines for all executives, developers, and elected officials. We urge you to adopt and use this framework to build a secure future.”
