On Tuesday, a multifaceted approach was introduced by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to enhance the protection of critical equipment against the threats posed by artificial intelligence, mitigate the potential misuse of this technology, and enhance employee proficiency in AI.
The report outlining CISA’s approach highlights the simultaneous security challenges arising from the integration of new technologies with legacy systems that were not initially designed with security considerations in mind. This initiative comes on the heels of President Joe Biden’s recent executive order on artificial intelligence, which aims to address the risks associated with AI while leveraging its advantages.
Described as the most potent technology of our era, artificial intelligence offers significant potential for bolstering national cybersecurity. However, CISA Director Jen Easterly emphasized the substantial risks accompanying its deployment. The agency’s comprehensive plan, titled “Our Roadmap for AI,” focuses on the convergence of AI, cybersecurity, and critical infrastructure. Its objectives include enhancing security measures, safeguarding AI systems from cyber threats, and preempting the malevolent use of AI to jeopardize essential infrastructure relied upon by the American populace.
Central to CISA’s strategy is the protection of critical infrastructure from AI-related threats. Through collaboration with governmental and commercial partners to develop, test, and assess AI tools for combating AI-related risks, the agency will leverage AI-driven solutions to fortify cyber defenses and uphold its mandate of safeguarding vital infrastructure. To this end, CISA may introduce JCDC Artificial to embed defenses against vulnerabilities and threats posed by AI systems.
CISA aims to support federal civil agencies, private enterprises, as well as state, local, and tribal authorities in adopting AI-based software securely by advocating for a “safe by design” approach. In addition to recommending strategies for red-teaming AI systems, the agency will furnish guidance and support for the implementation and enhancement of AI technologies.
Furthermore, CISA is poised to play a pivotal role in the Department of Homeland Security’s overarching strategy for AI and cybersecurity, disseminating its insights to interagency partners, international collaborators, and the general public. The agency’s best practices will adhere to the principles of responsible, ethical, and secure AI utilization while advancing global standards for AI governance.
Lastly, CISA aims to educate its workforce on AI software systems and methodologies to enhance their proficiency in domestic AI applications. Prioritizing the legal, ethical, and operational facets of AI-based technologies, CISA intends to recruit personnel with AI expertise and provide training for employees unfamiliar with this domain.
According to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the Artificial strategy represents a pivotal component of the agency’s cybersecurity endeavors. It aligns with broader departmental initiatives aimed at leveraging AI effectively while mitigating risks to critical infrastructure and digital defenses, as outlined in the organization’s roadmap.
