The Threat of Large Language Models to Canada's Information Ecosystem
The threat from large language model text generators - Canadian Centre for Cyber Security 🔗
Large language models (LLMs) present a significant threat to Canada’s information ecosystem, particularly regarding their potential for creating misleading synthetic content. Since 2016, generative AI technologies have become increasingly accessible, allowing both individuals and cyber threat actors to produce convincing fake text, images, and other media. The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security assesses that Canadians are likely exposed to such content, making them vulnerable to misinformation campaigns, especially via social media. While LLMs can facilitate phishing attacks by generating realistic emails, they also pose risks for organizations in terms of data governance and security, as sensitive information may inadvertently be leaked during interactions with these AI tools.
- LLMs can create synthetic content that influences opinions and behaviors.
- Organizations face risks of data leakage and compromised information security when using LLMs.
- Detection tools currently struggle to identify LLM-generated text, increasing the likelihood of undetected disinformation campaigns.
What are the main threats posed by large language models?
The main threats include online influence campaigns that spread misinformation and phishing attacks where LLMs generate convincing emails to steal sensitive information.
How do large language models impact organizations?
Organizations risk data governance issues and potential leaks of sensitive information when using LLMs, as the input data can be transferred outside their control.
Why is it difficult to detect LLM-generated content?
Current machine learning detection tools are often unable to identify LLM-generated text, making it increasingly challenging to recognize and counteract disinformation efforts.