The cautious embrace of generative AI by CIA’s chief technologist

A knowledge advantage can save lives, win wars and prevent disasters. At the Central Intelligence Agency, fundamental artificial intelligence - machine learning and algorithms - has long served this mission. Now generative AI is joining the efforts.

CIA Director William Burns says AI technology will augment humans, not replace them. The agency's first Chief Technology Officer, Nand Mulchandani, is assembling the tools. There is great urgency: adversaries are already spreading AI-generated deepfakes aimed at undermining American interests.

Mulchandani, a former Silicon Valley CEO who led successful startups, was appointed in 2022 after a stint at the Pentagon's Joint Artificial Intelligence ...