AI Safety for Business: Risks & Recommendations

As with any new technology, AI implementation comes with risks, particularly regarding data protection and security. My goal with this article is to provide a few recommendations for implementing AI safely and responsibly.

Artwork by Author

Understand the Types of Risk

Before diving into action steps, you should be aware of overarching weaknesses that should be addressed:

• Safety: Recognize that AI models can have complex vulnerabilities and establish robust security protocols to mitigate or isolate these risks. Thoroughly testing new software or tools can prevent performance problems and potential defects.
• Transparency: Ensure the AI strategic process and implementation are transparent and that all personnel are informed. Even with strict security systems, ignorance will lead to major compromises.
• Accuracy: Do not rely solely on these tools for precise grammar, data, or calculations. Double-check the accuracy and relevance of all AI-generated output.
• Privacy: Ensure compliance with privacy laws and respect consumer expectations to avoid legal issues and reputational damage. Refrain from sharing sensitive data like personal identification information, financial details, or confidential business information with AI tools.
• Fairness: Be alert to potential biases in AI models and the data that feeds them to prevent prejudice and unfair results. While AI tools can provide valuable insights and perform tasks at high speeds, they are not infallible.

Address the Human Factor in AI Safety

Human error is the most significant risk to any system’s security. While AI tools can have vulnerabilities, it’s often a single mistake that can expose your data. Employees at all levels must understand the potential threats associated with AI tools and how to avoid suspicious activities. Regular technology safety training sessions are beneficial to keep all team members aware of the latest security protocols.

Establish an AI Security Risk Assessment Plan

The cornerstone of business safety is risk assessment. Businesses should devise a risk-prioritization plan to effectively manage risks from any new technology. This involves creating a detailed record of potential AI risks specific to the organization and then systematically evaluating and prioritizing them based on their potential impact. Establishing a reliable system to track, audit, and prioritize potential threats will enable your business to quickly address critical situations.

Form a Technology Review Committee

AI safety is a multi-faceted issue that requires the expertise of professionals from different fields. Businesses may form a team or committee of legal, risk management, public relations, and data-science professionals. This team would be involved from the outset, ensuring that emerging technologies, including AI, deliver business value and conform to social norms and legal requirements.

Closing Thoughts

AI tools can be a game-changer for businesses, offering efficiencies and insights that can improve productivity. However, as with any technology, they should be used wisely, considering their potential security risks. To maximize the benefits of AI and safeguard your business, it’s important to conduct routine employee training, handle sensitive information with care, and verify AI outputs.