Libraries tackling the dangers of AI

LIBRARIES in Northumberland are to be at the forefront of a new programme designed to help tackle the dangers of AI and misinformation for the most vulnerable.

- JAMES ROBINSON

The county is one of just four areas across the UK to take part in the Government-funded scheme to improve digital skills and boost confidence in artificial intelligence.

Increasingly powerful AI technology has prompted concerns about misinformation being pushed by increasingly convincing fake images and videos. The UK Government has said that the emergence of generative AI - the type of artificial intelligence used to create media content - has provided "attackers" with tools that could even be used to "disrupt the security of elections”.

Northumberland Libraries is working in partnership with Libraries connected - the national membership body for public libraries - alongside Good Things Foundation and WSA Community to develop a "practical guide" for supporting digital inclusion to ensure that those most vulnerable to AI, misinformation and rapid digital change are not left behind.