The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has agreed to conduct a review of the potential harm caused by generative AI tools like ChatGPT. This decision comes in response to a request from Senators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Gary Peters (D-MI) to the GAO Comptroller. The senators expressed concerns about the harmful effects of generative AI, such as the manipulation of voice, text, and image synthesis by scammers, the replication of damaging stereotypes, and the generation of false content, including potentially defamatory statements.

The GAO confirmed its acceptance of the request in a response letter to the senators, which was obtained by FedScoop. The letter, written by GAO congressional relations managing director A. Nicole Clowers, stated that the GAO considered the work to be within the scope of its authority. It also mentioned that staff with the required skills would be available soon to discuss the approach to the assessment. Charles Young, managing director of public affairs at GAO, further confirmed the agency’s acceptance of the request and stated that the specific approach and time frames for issuance of the assessment would be determined as the work begins.

It is important to note that GAO is not currently using generative AI in its auditing work. This review will allow the GAO to better understand the potential risks and harms associated with this technology, which has become increasingly prevalent in various sectors.

Generative AI has shown promise in many applications, including language translation, content generation, and creative writing. However, its misuse and potential for harm have raised concerns. Scammers have started using generative AI to produce manipulative content, exploiting its ability to emulate human-like voices, generate text, and create realistic images. This has serious implications for fraud, misinformation, and the spread of harmful stereotypes.

Large language models powered by generative AI algorithms can also “hallucinate,” meaning they may generate false information that appears believable. This poses a challenge for verifying the accuracy and credibility of the content generated by these models. Furthermore, there is a risk of defamation, as false and potentially damaging statements can be produced by generative AI tools.

The GAO’s assessment will contribute to a better understanding of the potential risks and harms associated with generative AI. By examining the technology’s impact on society and identifying areas of concern, the GAO can help policymakers and regulators develop appropriate safeguards. This review aligns with the senators’ concerns regarding the need to address the harmful consequences of generative AI and ensure its responsible use.

The GAO’s involvement in this assessment demonstrates the importance of a robust oversight mechanism for emerging technologies. As generative AI continues to evolve, it is crucial to have accountable and independent entities that can evaluate its impact on society, identify risks, and propose necessary measures for mitigation. The GAO’s expertise in auditing and evaluating government programs makes it well-suited for this task.

In conclusion, the GAO’s decision to assess the potential harm caused by generative AI tools is a significant step towards understanding and addressing the risks associated with this technology. By conducting this review, the GAO can contribute to the development of responsible and ethical practices in the use of generative AI, safeguarding against its misuse and potential societal harms.

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