Recent developments in artificial intelligence span various sectors, highlighting both its potential and associated risks. Boom Supersonic's CEO suggests AI automation to reduce labor costs, while ETSI has released a new global standard for AI system security. AI startups are leveraging hackathons to attract talent, competing with larger tech companies. However, the misuse of AI is also evident, with a tragic case of a teen who died by suicide after being blackmailed with AI-generated nude photos, prompting calls for legislative change. Experts emphasize that AI cannot replace human empathy and problem-solving skills, which remain crucial. The rise of AI has also led to increased cybersecurity threats, with hackers using fake AI tools to distribute malware. On a positive note, AI is improving storm forecasting, enhancing the accuracy of tropical storm tracking. AI developer Anthropic is experiencing significant revenue growth, driven by the increasing business demand for generative AI, particularly in code generation. Additionally, a Nigerian startup, Terrahaptix, has secured a $1.2 million contract to provide AI-powered drone security for hydroelectric plants.
Key Takeaways
- Boom Supersonic CEO advocates for AI automation to lower labor costs.
- ETSI releases a global standard for securing AI systems.
- AI startups use hackathons to attract talent and compete with Big Tech.
- A teen died by suicide after being blackmailed with AI-generated nude photos, sparking calls for change.
- Experts stress that AI cannot replace human empathy and problem-solving skills.
- Hackers are using fake AI tools to distribute malware, posing a cybersecurity risk.
- AI is improving storm forecasting and tropical storm tracking.
- Anthropic sees $3 billion in revenue due to high demand for generative AI.
- Nigerian startup Terrahaptix wins a $1.2 million AI drone security contract.
- Cybersecurity teams add significant value to business projects, approximately $36 million.
Boom CEO says AI automation can lower labor costs
Boom Supersonic CEO Blake Scholl spoke about labor costs and AI automation. He believes the US is at a disadvantage due to high labor costs. Scholl suggests using AI automation to reduce these costs instead of relying on subsidies and tariffs.
New AI security standard released cybersecurity teams boost business value
ETSI released a global standard for securing AI systems, created with the U.K.'s NCSC and DSIT. The standard provides security principles for the entire AI system lifecycle. A study by Ernst & Young found that cybersecurity teams add about $36 million in value to business projects. Tenable polled webinar attendees about their cloud security challenges. The U.K.'s NCSC also released guidance on safely decommissioning tech products.
AI startups use hackathons to find talent compete with Big Tech
AI startups are using hackathons to find talented computer engineers. These events help startups compete with larger tech companies for skilled workers. Startups show they are agile and approachable during hackathons. Some startups scout early-career talent they might miss in regular hiring. ElevenLabs hired an engineer after he participated in their AI hackathon.
Teen dies after AI nude blackmail family fights for change
Elijah Heacock, a teen, died by suicide after being blackmailed with AI-generated nude photos. Scammers demanded $3,000 to prevent sending the images to his family and friends. Sextortion scams, where criminals threaten to release explicit images, are increasing. The 'Take It Down' Act makes posting fake or real explicit images online a federal crime. Elijah's parents are advocating for change to prevent similar tragedies.
AI can't replace human empathy and problem-solving skills
People are feeling anxious that AI will take away their sense of purpose. A former OpenAI researcher predicts AI could outperform humans in almost every field by 2027. However, AI cannot replicate human empathy or solve emotional problems with wisdom. The most important skills are calming yourself and solving problems, which are human skills. In the AI era, being human encouragers with empathy is crucial.
Beware AI products that seem free they might be malware
Hackers are using AI's popularity to trick people into downloading malware. They promote fake AI tools on social media, leading users to download harmful software. A Vietnam-based group, UNC6032, used fake sites to distribute malware disguised as AI video generators. This malware can steal usernames, passwords, and banking information. Always be cautious and avoid downloading AI apps from untrusted sources.
AI improves storm forecasting as hurricane season approaches
AI weather models are now better than traditional forecasts at tracking tropical storms. An AI model called Aurora improved tropical storm tracking by 20 to 25 percent. Google DeepMind's GenCast also better predicts extreme weather. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts uses an AI system that more accurately positions storms. AI helps save lives and prevent property damage by improving warning systems.
Anthropic sees $3 billion in revenue due to AI business demand
AI developer Anthropic is making about $3 billion in yearly revenue. This shows that businesses are using generative AI more. The company's revenue has jumped from nearly $1 billion in December 2024. A key factor is code generation, using Anthropic's AI models. Anthropic is known for AI that is good at computer programming.
Nigerian startup Terrahaptix wins $1.2M AI drone security contract
Terrahaptix, a Nigerian startup, won a $1.2 million contract to provide security for hydroelectric plants. They will deploy AI-powered drones and sentry towers. Their Artemis OS uses AI to detect threats like bandits. The contract includes a six-figure annual software subscription fee. Terrahaptix has clients in several African countries and operates a factory in Abuja.
Sources
- Scholl Says Use AI Automation Bring to Down Labor Cost
- Cybersecurity Snapshot: New Standard for AI System Security Published, While Study Finds Cyber Teams Boost Value of Business Projects
- How AI startups are using hackathons to compete with Big Tech for talent
- A teen died after being blackmailed with A.I.-generated nudes. His family is fighting for change
- AI Can’t Take This From You
- AI products that sound too good to be true might be malware in disguise
- How AI can improve storm forecasting as hurricane season arrives
- Anthropic hits $3 billion in annualized revenue on business demand for AI
- Nigerian Startup Terrahaptix Wins $1.2M AI Drone Security Contract for Hydroelectric Plants