Experts back Fidan over AI, stress human oversight

Experts evaluating Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s comments on artificial intelligence emphasized that the software should be domestic

Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s assessment that artificial intelligence will reshape the future and be a game-changer in intelligence analysis has sparked discussions on the critical role of AI. 

Experts agree with Fidan, highlighting the urgency for Türkiye to develop a national system for utilizing AI in intelligence gathering. Retired Staff Colonel Gursel Tokmakoglu, commenting on Fidan’s remarks, pointed out AI’s unique ability to analyze vast amounts of data and calculate complex probabilities. This, according to Tokmakoglu, will revolutionize intelligence analysis.

Localization of software is imperative

highlighting the use of AI by foreign intelligence services and emphasizing the critical need for Türkiye to address this, Tokmakoglu said: “The software used for artificial intelligence currently bears resemblances across platforms. However, this software should be domestically developed. Planning on this matter should consider the self-evolving structure of artificial intelligence.

Given the confidential nature of intelligence, the system should not be permitted to utilize available information to enhance itself. Nationalization of the system is crucial. Whoever undertakes this task in Türkiye, whether it be TUBITAK, MIT, or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will necessitate substantial investment. The paramount concern is Türkiye’s commitment to harnessing this capability.”

Presence in US, UK

Ismail Hakki Pekin, former chief of the general staff intelligence department, weighed in on the discussion about AI in intelligence analysis. He highlighted the existing use of AI for such operations by countries like the U.S. and the U.K. Pekin acknowledged the vast amount of information available from open sources, and the challenge of analyzing it quickly. He pointed out that traditional methods can require a large number of people to analyze a single subject. Pekin believes AI will be a valuable tool in this area, but stressed the importance of human involvement in decision-making. He warned of the risks associated with “Leaving the system entirely to artificial intelligence.”

MIT’s advisory for children

On its official website, the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) issued advisories to children on the safe and cautious use of social media channels. Advisories, categorized under headings such as “Keeping Accounts Private”, “Avoiding Contact with Unknown Individuals,” “Exercising Caution in Sharing”, “Using Social Media Safely” and “Preventing Cyberbullying”, include:

• Go Private: Lock down your account settings to ensure only approved followers can see your posts. This is usually found under “Account settings” or “Privacy settings” depending on the platform.

• Be Selective: Don’t accept friend requests or follow people you don’t know. Avoid clicking on links. 

• Remain cautious: Individuals attempting to contact you may not be who they claim to be.

• Digital Footprint: Be mindful that all activities on the internet are recorded.

• Keep It Personal: Avoid sharing personal information such as your date of birth, address, school name, or family members’ names on your social media accounts. Protect your accounts with strong passwords.