In a blog post this week, OpenAI revealed has added Paul M. Nakasone, a retired general from the US Army and ex-director of the National Security Agency (NSA), to its board of directors. Nakasone, who led the NSA from 2018 until early 2024, will bring his cybersecurity expertise to OpenAI’s Safety and Security Committee, overseen by CEO Sam Altman.
Strengthening Cybersecurity
Nakasone’s new role at OpenAI is part of the company’s focus on improving its cybersecurity measures. He will use artificial intelligence to boost OpenAI’s defenses against cyber threats. Nakasone’s strong support for the renewal of Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, a crucial surveillance program recently reauthorized by Congress, reflects his deep engagement in the field of cybersecurity.
The OpenAI board now includes Nakasone alongside prominent individuals such as CEO Sam Altman, Adam D’Angelo, Larry Summers, Bret Taylor, Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann, Nicole Seligman, and Fidji Simo. Microsoft’s Dee Templeton holds a non-voting observer position. Recent changes in OpenAI’s leadership have raised concerns about the company’s focus on safety.
Co-founder and chief scientist Ilya Sutskever, who played a key role in the controversial firing and rehiring of CEO Sam Altman, has left the organization. Jan Leike, another key researcher, also resigned, citing that the emphasis on safety has been compromised by the ambition for new products.
Focus on Secure AI Development
Board chair Bret Taylor emphasized the importance of secure development and deployment of artificial intelligence. While acknowledging AI’s potential for positive change, Taylor expressed confidence in Nakasone’s extensive cybersecurity experience as a vital asset to help OpenAI ensure its technology benefits humanity.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:59 pm CET
