Advanced AI fueling false and misleading information poses the immediate risk of eroding democracy and polarising society, according to the World Economic Forum's Global Risks Report.
Based on a survey of experts, industry leaders, and policymakers, the report also highlights the long-term threats of environmental risks. The proliferation of AI chatbots, such as ChatGPT, enables the creation of sophisticated synthetic content that manipulates people, raising concerns about disseminating misinformation and disinformation.

The upcoming Davos meetings will feature discussions on AI, with influential figures from the tech industry in attendance. The report warns that AI-powered misinformation and disinformation are particularly concerning as countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and India prepare for forthcoming elections. It becomes increasingly difficult to verify facts, potentially eroding democratic processes and polarizing societies.

The rise of AI also presents cybersecurity risks, making cyberattacks easier for 'malicious actors' through automated phishing attempts and advanced malware. Remarkably, technical skills are no longer necessary to carry out such attacks. Moreover, AI can perpetuate biases in AI models by corrupting data scraped from the internet, exacerbating societal inequalities and prejudices.

Aside from AI-related risks, the report identifies climate change as a significant global concern. Extreme weather is ranked as the second-most pressing short-term risk. In the long term, critical changes to Earth's systems, biodiversity loss, ecosystem collapse, and natural resource shortages are highlighted as major threats. The report warns that irreversible climate change may reach a tipping point within the next decade if not addressed effectively.

Why does it matter?

Addressing these risks requires collaboration among policymakers, tech companies, and societies. Informed decision-making, the development of robust regulatory frameworks, and comprehensive analysis of interconnected societal and environmental challenges are necessary. The report serves as a wake-up call to the global community, urging immediate action to protect democratic processes, combat cybersecurity threats, and address the impending climate crisis.