Six Fingers No More: Spotting AI's Sneaky New Tricks

Artificial intelligence, or AI, is quickly becoming a big part of life in the north-east of England and Cumbria. From new data centres to advanced robots, the region is seeing more and more uses for this technology. Many people are curious about how to recognize AI in the things they see online and how to use it without feeling guilty about the environment. Professor David Hughes, who works at Teesside University and advises the government on AI, says that people should not be afraid of this technology. He believes AI is exciting and can bring many benefits to society.

One of the main concerns people have about AI is security. Telmo from Newcastle asked if there are any risks now or in the future. Professor Hughes answered that there are some risks, especially when it comes to fraud and misinformation. He recommends that people always check their sources and trust organizations that are accountable, like the BBC. Social media platforms also have a responsibility to remove false information. Professor Hughes says that it is getting harder to spot AI just by looking at images, because the technology is improving so quickly. The old trick of counting fingers in a picture does not work anymore. Instead, he suggests asking yourself where the information comes from and what it is trying to make you do. If something online is trying to get a big reaction from you, it is smart to pause and think about why.

The region is seeing a lot of investment in AI. A ten billion pound data centre is being built near Blyth, and there are more projects in places like Cobalt Park in North Tyneside. In Cumbria, the nuclear industry is using AI-trained robots, and in Sunderland, Nissan is using AI to make cars safer. Lauren asked if there is a way to use AI without feeling guilty about the environment. Professor Hughes explained that data uses energy, but the industry is working hard to use green energy and save power. He says it is important to use AI responsibly. As AI becomes a bigger part of our lives, it is important for everyone to learn how to use it safely and wisely.