Held at the Francis Crick, a distinctive biomedical research institute, the focus for this second event in the series was the pros and cons of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and how useful it is when combined with other technology.
Topics of the day included:
The event provided delegates with the chance to hear from industry experts Tony Porter OBE QPM LLB, the former Surveillance Camera Commissioner, now Chief Privacy Office at Corsight AI; and Mike Gillespie, Managing Director and Co-Founder of Advent IM Ltd, Vice President for Strategic Cyberspace and International Studies (CSCIS), Cyber Security advisor to the UK Surveillance Camera Commissioner.
Tony presented attendees with an insightful and thought-provoking update on what is happening in the world of AI from a local, regional, national, and international perspective, updated the audience on the outcomes from the latest Global Summit, discussed the challenges we face with regards to AI in terms of public protection and the lawful and ethical use of it in public safety and law enforcement as well as exploring real life examples where AI recognition can dramatically improve public safely and save lives.
Reflecting on the event Tony commented, “Timing of this event was perfect. At the peak of the AI debate, post the Global AI Summit and US President’s Executive Order on AI, delegates were able to express optimism and fear surrounding the issues. From law, regulation to deployment no area was missed. Fantastic contributions from the delegates and seamless work by the organisational teams made this event a tremendous success. Cannot wait for the follow up!”
Our other guest speaker Mike Gillespie commented “I was delighted to be invited to speak at the Open Event on Artificial Intelligence, looking at the opportunities, possibilities, and the potential pitfalls of adopting and using this exciting technology. The event was well attended, the open discussion that kicked the event off was a great way of hearing what the audience thought and helped shaped the later panel debate. There are clearly a lot of questions that need answering about this technology, and the discussion ranged from security and privacy to ethics. The energy in the room throughout the day clearly demonstrates how much interest there is in this topic area, and I am looking forward to the discussions continuing as the landscape evolves.”
Mike provided delegates with the chance to learn and discuss AI further, focusing in on how AI impacts data collection and privacy, current and future threats to the industry with AI, as well as best practices such as the NCSC Security Principles for Machine Learning.
One of the attendees Niamh Cahill commented “Cortech’s AI conference was thoroughly enjoyable and engaging. It was interesting to hear the different views of attendees from a variety of industries in the group discussions on the opportunities and threats AI poses. Speakers Tony Porter and Mike Gillespie presented insightful talks highlighting the global capabilities and concerns of the use of AI for public safety and cybersecurity and how governing bodies are responding to this new wave.
Tony expressed the need for companies to develop ethical strategies for facial recognition AI to combat flaws in the technology such as racial bias as global governing bodies are likely two to three years away from setting standards.
Mike focussed on the use of AI cybersecurity in fighting cyber-attacks which easy access to AI ‘ransomware’ could cause a concerning increase in. Furthermore, Mike argued the need for governments to step in and ensure the best interests of people are being prioritised with big tech being the biggest attenders of the AI summit. Also, something raised that I had not considered was the impact of AI on the environment with the industry estimated to use as much energy as the Netherlands!”
Another delegate, Tim Hemsley Head of Security Logistics and Waste, Francis Crick described the event as the following “A fascinating conference, with excellent speakers with up-to-date knowledge and experience. A great opportunity to discuss the future of AI and what it means to us.”
Jason Blundell, Head of Sales and Marketing for Cortech Developments, reflected on the event and concluded with the following “The Open Event Forum was created with an objective to provide attendees with a single event where they could explore topics at the forefront of the UKs security agenda, openly share experiences, learn and discuss key challenges facing our industry.
Looking back on the events so far that we have facilitated with Nedap and Geutebruck, I am confident in saying that we are successfully meeting this objective. The format of the events naturally allows for open and interesting discussions to take place around topical issues and attendees can network with leading trusted advisors and influencers in the industry. I cannot wait for the next one!”
Do not worry if you were unable to attend plans are underway for the next event. So be sure to keep your eyes peeled on our social media channels and websites where details will be announced.
