NEED TO KNOW NEWSLETTER     |  OCTOBER 2024

Generative AI 101

Everyone is talking about artificial intelligence. This technology is becoming an important part of our lives, at home and work. And the hottest new thing is generative AI. GenAI is transforming how individuals, teams, and entire organizations operate. They can help drive innovation, enhance problem-solving, and boost productivity. But as with any new technology, its integration presents unique challenges and risks.

What is generative AI?

Generative AI is a type of artificial intelligence that can create new content. You can use genAI to draft an email, paint a picture, write a song, or even make a video.

You may already know some generative AI tools. 

How does genAI work?

It all starts with an algorithm. The creators choose an algorithm or framework to build their AI on. This is like the seed that the generative AI model will grow from. What algorithm the creators choose will depend on what they want their project to do.

The creators then feed the new AI model with huge amounts of training data. What data they use depends on what the model will be used for. Do you want a model that can write like Shakespeare? Then you’ll be feeding it a lot of classic literature.

The more data you give it, the better the model will be.

The operator “teaches” the model how to make the correct connections. Now the model can generate new output, based on previous information.

Generative AI security awareness

AI is a tool. And like any tool, it can be misused. Criminals are already exploiting AI technology to scam people and break even the best security measures. Users may not be aware of the security and legal risks of using AI carelessly.

Here are some concerns you should be aware of to keep your information and yourself secure.

• Phishing: Threat Actors can use AI to create realistic, highly specific phishing emails designed to evade detection. These AI tools can automatically customize emails to you based on your industry, your location, and even your role.
• Deepfakes: A deepfake is when someone digitally changes video or audio to look or sound like somebody else online. This technology can be fun, but threat actors know its potential for crime. Thanks to readily available audio and video online, threat actors can impersonate almost anyone. 
• AI accidents and errors
  • Generative AI networks are prone to “hallucinations”. In some cases, an AI tool will produce an answer that’s not only wrong but completely made up.
  • GenAI can lead to legal challenges. Generative AI creates new output, based on the prompt and the training data it was given. However, many AI networks are trained on copyrighted material. This can make it difficult for you to use AI-created content legally.
• Ethical Considerations: Keep in mind that GenAI tools do not possess ethical or moral reasoning and should not replace human judgment.

Generative AI is a revolutionary tool. And like any tool, it can be misused. But, by being cautious and using approved verified services, you can use genAI safely.

Safe use of generative AI

To use generative AI tools safely and responsibly, just follow a few simple rules:

1. Don’t feed AI confidential data: Never input sensitive data like Personal Identifiable Information, Protected Health Information or confidential work data. Many tools may train their models on any data submitted in prompts and conversations. Private data needs to be kept out of these types of systems. 
2. Double-check any AI outputs: Don't take any AI output as fact until you verify it first.
3. Only use trusted, approved AI services: If using an AI service for work-related material, ensure you are using a tool that is approved by your organization.
4.  Monitor legal and regulatory developments: Governmental entities are all developing and updating regulations, many of which will have significant impact on our AI usage.