The Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi warns of the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI): from fake news to hybrid wars, technological threats can undermine fundamental rights and democratic stability, requiring awareness and responsibility.
Let’s see all the details in this article.
Fake News and AI: reflections on security and democracy
In an increasingly interconnected world, the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) presents itself as a double-edged sword.
During the inauguration of the academic year at the Higher School of Police, the Minister of the Interior Matteo Piantedosi issued a clear warning: not fully understanding AI and its impact could result in excessive trust in the results it generates.
“Artificial intelligence is a tool, but its application depends on human choices,” stated Piantedosi, highlighting how technology, if used without awareness, can turn into a direct threat to fundamental rights and the democratic system.
One of the most concerning examples of the potential abuse of artificial intelligence is represented by fake news.
These falsified informations, often processed through advanced algorithms, not only fuel disinformation but can also become strategic weapons within modern hybrid wars.
“The fake news produced artificially. They do not just distort public perception, but they can challenge national security and the internal stability of a country.”
The uncontrolled circulation of false news not only undermines trust in institutions, but could also have devastating effects on the democratic fabric.
Artificial intelligence, with its ability to generate hyper-realistic content, makes it increasingly difficult to distinguish between reality and manipulation.
Deepfake, falsified video and audio, as well as seemingly authentic texts, are already showing their destructive potential, creating confusion and fostering social polarization.
Fundamental rights in bull?
According to Piantedosi, the indiscriminate use of AI risks entering into conflict with fundamental rights and with democratic achievements in the political, economic, and social fields.
“The protection of fundamental rights is the heart of the security function. And technological evolution must never contradict it.”
This balance requires a conscious effort to ensure that technological innovations do not become tools of oppression or inequality. The responsibility to make AI a progress for everyone, Piantedosi reiterated, is entirely human.
In particular, the minister emphasized the importance of not succumbing to blind trust in the results produced by AI.
The automation of decision-making processes, if not regulated, could lead to unforeseen consequences, compromising the transparency and fairness of institutions.
As mentioned, even modern hybrid wars represent a field where artificial intelligence plays a crucial role.
These strategies combine conventional and unconventional operations, often using technological tools such as fake news to destabilize bull and bear nations.
The creation and dissemination of AI-manipulated content allow for targeting the civilian population, sowing distrust in institutions, and influencing public opinion.
This type of conflict, invisible but devastating, endangers national security and requires timely and coordinated responses.
The minister Piantedosi emphasized how it is essential to develop defense systems capable of identifying and neutralizing these threats.
The cooperation between institutions, technological experts, and civil society will be fundamental to protect democratic stability in a context of increasing complexity.
Towards a responsible artificial intelligence
At the base of every technological innovation, there is a human choice: deciding how and why to use a tool. Artificial intelligence is no exception.
Piantedosi emphasized the importance of thoroughly understanding the potential and limitations of AI, avoiding turning it into a “black box” in which to place unconditional trust.
The regulation and the control over the use of AI are essential steps to ensure that technology remains at the service of humanity.
As a result, transparency in automated decision-making processes and the promotion of widespread digital education represent essential tools for building a resilient society.