OpenAI Collaborates with Pentagon on Cybersecurity Initiatives

OpenAI, known for developing ChatGPT, is engaging in several projects with the U.S. Department of Defense, including advancements in cybersecurity. This marks a significant shift from the startup’s previous policy against offering its artificial intelligence technology for military use. Anna Makanju, OpenAI’s Vice President of Global Affairs, discussed these developments during an interview at the World Economic Forum in Davos.

The collaboration includes working on open-source cybersecurity software with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) as part of its AI Cyber Challenge announced last year. Additionally, OpenAI has initiated discussions with the U.S. government about potential AI applications to help prevent veteran suicide.

Recently, OpenAI amended its terms of service, removing the clause that prohibited the use of its AI for ‘military and warfare’ purposes. Makanju explained that this update was a part of an effort to align the company’s policies with the evolving applications of ChatGPT and other tools. However, she affirmed that OpenAI continues to prohibit the use of its technology for developing weapons, destroying property, or causing harm to individuals.

Microsoft Corp., OpenAI’s largest investor, already has several software contracts with the U.S. armed forces and other government branches. OpenAI, along with Anthropic, Google, and Microsoft, is supporting DARPA in its quest to develop AI solutions that can autonomously rectify vulnerabilities and safeguard infrastructure against cyber threats. This partnership was earlier reported by The Intercept.

In addition to these defense-related projects, OpenAI is intensifying its efforts in election security. The company is dedicating resources to ensure its generative AI tools are not exploited for spreading political misinformation. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman highlighted the importance of this initiative, acknowledging the significant impact elections have and the necessity for heightened vigilance against disinformation.