New ORNL Center Launches Study on AI-Related Cybersecurity Challenges

Studies at Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s newly established Center for AI Security Research are focused on underresearched cybersecurity challenges tied to artificial intelligence that impact humanity and national security.

Since its founding in 2023, CAISER has been researching the influence of AI in cybersecurity amid the increasing usage of generative AI tools and language-learning models.

With the emergence of such tools, strengthened data security is needed to ensure users are provided with accurate information. According to Edmon Bergoli, director of CAISER, the AI-related cybersecurity problems are critical, but there is a lack of research effort on the matter, GovCIO Media & Research reported.

The center’s ongoing study also highlighted the harm associated with deepfakes. Bergoli and a CAISER researcher made a fake video using an AI program, noting that the work lasted two hours and only cost $10. Debunking the video, however, requires advanced technology – over $100,000 and several months, the researchers said.

To address such challenges, Bergoli recommended having more policies aimed at regulating AI testing and enhancing red teaming capabilities.