On November 15, 2024, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released a new set of guidelines aimed at governing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in critical infrastructure sectors. The guidelines, developed in consultation with the DHS’s Artificial Intelligence Safety and Security Board, cover vital systems such as the power grid, water supply, air travel, and more. The aim is to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly and securely to protect national security and public safety.
The framework recommends that AI developers assess the potential risks of their products and capabilities, with a particular focus on identifying and mitigating any dangerous features. It also emphasizes the importance of aligning AI systems with “human-centric values” to ensure that AI-driven processes support societal well-being and respect privacy. This is crucial as AI systems are becoming increasingly integrated into systems that affect daily life, such as transportation and utilities.
In addition to urging developers to evaluate their AI products, the framework calls on owners and operators of critical infrastructure to bolster cybersecurity practices. This includes implementing stronger protocols to address AI-related vulnerabilities, providing greater transparency about AI’s role in operations, and ensuring the physical security of data centers where AI systems are hosted. The guidelines also extend to state and local governments, which are encouraged to adopt these security measures to protect their own infrastructure from emerging risks posed by AI.
Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas highlighted that the framework is intended to be a “living document” that evolves alongside advancements in AI technology. While the guidelines were crafted under the Biden administration, Mayorkas noted that it would be up to the next president, including President-elect Donald Trump, to determine any potential revisions or future policies related to AI governance. As AI continues to shape the future of infrastructure, the framework lays a foundation for a more secure and transparent approach to its integration into critical sectors.
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