Artificial intelligence should not be relied upon for critical tasks such as retirement finance planning and medical diagnosis, according to Dr Vint Cerf, the father of the Internet. In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Dr Cerf, who currently serves as the Chief Internet Evangelist of Google, highlighted that current AI systems are far from perfect.
Dr Cerf explained that while AI is a form of machine learning, it should not be confused with real human intelligence. AI can only reflect what it has learned and lacks the ability to reason or make judgments in the same way humans do.
To illustrate the limitations of AI, Dr Cerf gave an example of a voice-activated AI opening the door to a visitor without checking their identity. This scenario raises concerns about the potential risks and unintended consequences of relying solely on AI.
The renowned computer scientist also expressed his worries about “large language models” that may produce undesirable outcomes. These models, often referred to as “hallucinating models,” can mix factual information with counter-factual output, leading to misleading or inaccurate results.
When asked about the possibility of AI systems becoming self-aware, Dr Cerf stated that he hopes this is not the case. He emphasized the need for programmers to gain a deeper understanding of AI systems and their specific characteristics before considering such advancements.
Regarding the impact of deepfakes, Dr Cerf acknowledged the potential hazards they pose, particularly in the entertainment industry. He emphasized the importance of regulating deepfake creation and holding individuals accountable for their creation.
In conclusion, Dr Vint Cerf cautioned against overreliance on AI for critical tasks, emphasizing the need for programmers to address the limitations and nuances of these systems. While AI has its benefits, it is crucial to understand its current boundaries and ensure responsible development and usage.
