In an effort to mitigate significant security risks, the Defense Secretary of the Philippines, Gilberto Teodoro Jr., has issued a memorandum order on October 14, instructing personnel from the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to refrain from using artificial intelligence (AI) photo generator applications.
Teodoro emphasized that these apps pose privacy and security threats, stating, “The online trending digital application that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI), which requires its users to submit at least ten (10) photos of themselves to generate an enhanced portrait, poses significant privacy and security risks.
This application compiles its users’ data and creates a digital person that mimics how a real individual speaks and moves.”
He further highlighted the potential dangers, explaining that these seemingly harmless and amusing AI-powered applications can be exploited to create fake profiles, leading to identity theft, social engineering, phishing attacks, and other malicious activities. Teodoro cited a specific case to underscore the urgency of the matter.
In his memo, Teodoro reminded DND and AFP personnel to align their actions with the department’s values and existing policies.
He explicitly directed all personnel to refrain from using AI photo generator applications and urged them to exercise vigilance when sharing information online.
DND spokesperson Arsenio Andolong confirmed the receipt of the memo by DND and AFP personnel, and AFP Public Affairs Office chief Lt. Col. Enrico Gil Ileto affirmed that the military will take appropriate action in response to the directive.
This decision aims to safeguard the privacy, security, and integrity of the military forces and their operations.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 20, 2023
