
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates has warned that cyberattacks powered by Artificial Intelligence could increase significantly over the next year. According to him, the most immediate risk is not that AI gets out of control, but that it is used by people with malicious intent.
In an interview with ABC News on Sunday, Gates stressed that Artificial Intelligence systems, when used without safeguards, can create serious cybersecurity threats.
"The front where we are likely to see this development most clearly over the next year is cyberattacks," he declared.
Gates argued that, although the risk of AI going completely out of control should be taken seriously, the biggest impact of this scenario could still be years away.
"The real danger now is not that AI will get out of control. We need to work on this issue, but the big impact it could have is still years away," he said.
According to Gates, the main concern is related to individuals using the most advanced AI models after removing or bypassing security mechanisms. He warned that the combination of advanced technology with a lack of safeguards could lead to serious consequences, especially in the field of cyberattacks and bioterrorism.
Gates opposes self-regulation of companies
During the interview, the Microsoft co-founder criticized the idea that Artificial Intelligence companies can alone guarantee the safety of this technology, without sufficient oversight and regulation from authorities.
Referring to the approach supported by US President Donald Trump for self-regulation of companies, Gates stressed that this is not enough for a technology with such high risks.
"It's clear we're not doing enough," he declared, questioning whether companies should be the sole control mechanism for a technology that could have far-reaching consequences for society.
Gates' warnings come after an article he published in August, where he argued that the world is not sufficiently prepared for the major changes brought about by Artificial Intelligence, especially in the labor market.
His statements add to concerns among technology industry leaders about the need for stronger security measures and a regulatory framework to limit the misuse of advanced AI systems.