I have liked science fiction for a long time and have watched television programs about the evolution of computer programming and robots for decades. The merging of AI and mobile robots is a topic of many movies, television programs and books. Most of them present a terrifying future to draw reader (or viewer) interest, predict how the future may be and warn how AI can get out of control. They, however, present a more advanced view of the future of the AI mobile robots than what is available on the internet.
Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the newest programming languages and a tool that has become both useful and harmful to society. In the ISACA Journal article titled “Should We Be Relying on AI-Driven Mobile Robots?,” I presented my concerns about AI, as well as discussed associated threats and risk factors from an information security and privacy perspective. In it I discussed preventive measures, protective controls, and detective practices and tools as a means of managing AI.
In this article I review the current and proposed evolution of AI and look at mobile robots as presented by some manufacturers. My concern is that the vendors and the information available on the internet is lacking. I think the combined AI and mobile robot technology is already in existence, but only available to a select group of vendors and target markets. The AI problems that have been documented in the news (e.g., AI-generated articles and ads with incorrect statements, erroneous chatbot responses, impersonation of real people, etc.) relate to bad data sources and programming. The old saying “Garbage in, garbage out” holds true for the data and the supporting programming.
I thought about the evolution and wondered how mobile robots with AI could be developed to maintain control and accountability. The article reviews the stages of AI evolution, includes a list of mobile robots, presents good robot attributes, identifies some existing laws and standards, reviews recommended product terms and conditions, provides some thoughts and insights about the technology, and presents some safeguards as well as warnings about readiness and future use.
The merging of AI with mobile robots is not easy and can be very dangerous to the users and society if not managed and properly controlled. Developers should take extra care with the technology and use third-party consultants to audit and test what is produced. Applicable standards, guidance and testing procedures are needed to aid the developers, programmers and vendors.
Going to market without proper safeguards is a disaster waiting to happen. Safety, truth, accuracy and intent (with an eye toward future use and unforeseen problems) should be fundamental concerns.
Editor’s note: Find more insights on this topic in Larry’s 2024 ISACA Journal, volume 4, article, Should We Be Relying on AI-Driven Mobile Robots?