In a new report, the National Security Transparency Advisory Group is urging Canada’s security agencies to publish detailed descriptions of their current and intended uses of artificial intelligence systems and software applications. The group was created in 2019 to increase accountability and public awareness of national security policies, programs, and activities. The government sees the group as an important tool for implementing a six-point federal commitment to be more transparent about national security.
Security agencies are already using AI for tasks such as translating documents and detecting malware threats. The report foresees a greater reliance on the technology for analyzing large volumes of text and images, recognizing patterns, and interpreting trends and behavior.
The report emphasizes the need for the public to know more about the objectives and undertakings of national border, police, and spy services as the use of AI expands across the national security community. Openness and engagement are crucial to enabling innovation and public trust, according to the report.
Ottawa has provided guidance on the federal use of artificial intelligence, including requiring an algorithmic impact assessment before creating a system that assists or replaces human decision-makers. The government has also introduced the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act to ensure responsible design, development, and rollout of AI systems.
The Communications Security Establishment, Canada’s cyberspy agency, has been using data science to analyze large amounts of information. The agency emphasizes that using AI does not mean eliminating humans from the process, but rather enabling them to make better decisions.
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service, which investigates threats like extremist activity and foreign meddling, is working on formalizing plans and governance concerning the use of artificial intelligence. However, due to CSIS’s mandate to protect national security, there are limitations on what can be publicly discussed.
In response to the advisory group report, the RCMP plans to publish a transparency blueprint outlining the key principles for responsible technology use. The Mounties are also developing a national policy on the use of AI to ensure transparency and safeguards.
Overall, the transparency advisory group recommends the government provide more public reporting on progress and achievements related to transparency commitments. Public Safety Canada has shared the report’s recommendations with relevant departments and committees but has not provided a timeline for implementation.
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