The White House National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, expressed concerns over the use of artificial intelligence (AI) by Beijing to suppress its own citizens, spread misinformation, and undermine the security of the United States and its allies.
During an event at the National Defense University on Thursday, Sullivan stated that the newly issued AI guidelines by the U.S. aim to address these concerns partially and provide alternative solutions for developing economies and other partners worldwide.
“We are aware that China (the CCP) is utilizing digital infrastructure to construct its own technological ecosystem, but it does not protect sensitive data, which could lead to extensive surveillance and censorship, and may be used to spread misinformation, making other countries vulnerable to threats,” Sullivan said.
The White House announced a memorandum on Thursday to address national security risks posed by AI, following an executive order signed by President Biden a year ago.
Officials indicated that this framework is intended to counter adversaries like the CCP who use AI for military purposes while establishing effective safeguards to maintain public trust.
According to the Associated Press, a senior official from the Biden administration stated, “AI has significant applications in national security, including cybersecurity and counterintelligence. Countries like China recognize this opportunity and are attempting to modernize and revolutionize their military and intelligence capabilities using AI.”
“We particularly need to accelerate the ability of the national security community to adopt and utilize cutting-edge AI to maintain our competitive edge,” the official added.
In October last year, Biden instructed the National Security Council and the White House Office to develop this memorandum aimed at “exerting leadership in managing AI technology risks globally.”
The White House described it as a “milestone” initiative, authorizing federal agencies to establish new security standards for AI systems and requiring developers to share their security testing results and other key information with the U.S. government.
U.S. officials anticipate that the rapid advancement of AI technology will fuel military and intelligence competition among major global powers.
Another government official revealed that U.S. security agencies have been instructed to obtain access to the “most powerful AI systems,” involving significant procurement efforts.
“We believe we must defeat our opponents in competition and mitigate threats posed by their use of AI,” the official stated.
He emphasized that the memorandum aims to ensure that the government “accelerates the adoption of AI in a wise and responsible manner.”
In addition to the memorandum, the government will release a framework document to guide “how agencies can and cannot use AI.”
In July this year, over ten civil society organizations, including the Center for Democracy and Technology, sent an open letter to Biden administration officials, urging the establishment of robust safeguards in the national security apparatus.