Gilberto Teodoro Jr., the Defense Secretary of the Philippines, has issued an order banning members of the 163,000-member military and defense staff from using computer programs that use artificial intelligence to make self-portraits. In response to mounting worries about the security dangers posed by such AI-powered applications, the order was issued in a memorandum on October 14.

The Philippines has had a number of national security difficulties, such as the South China Sea territorial disputes and long-running Muslim and communist insurgencies. In light of this, the government is growingly wary of possible risks, especially those brought on by AI technologies.

The Concerning Anonymous AI App

The memorandum specifically forbids using digital apps that ask users to submit ten or more photos of themselves, even if it doesn’t name the specific AI applications that are targeted. These apps then use artificial intelligence (AI) to create a “digital person” that mimics the speech and gestures of a real person. The current problem is that these apps may raise important security and privacy issues.

Although using AI-generated photos could initially seem harmless, Teodoro highlights the significant risks associated with doing so. These programs can be used to make false profiles, which opens the door to identity theft, phishing scams, social engineering, and other illegal activity.

Previous Event Initiates Response

The memo highlights the risks involved with AI-generated profiles by citing a prior occurrence. The document is a warning to the defense and military personnel, even though it doesn’t go into detail. They are instructed to use caution while sharing information online and to refrain from using AI photo generator apps. The Philippines Defense Department’s principles and policies must be followed in carrying out these tasks.

Governments are becoming more and more concerned about the security implications of AI applications as they continue to grow in popularity across the globe. The Philippines’ decision to ban several AI-powered apps emphasizes how important it is to exercise caution when using technology, especially in delicate areas like national defense.