How ‘Black Box’ Algorithms are Assisting a New Generation of Criminals | Big Think.

TL;DR

Algorithms, like Siri, drive crime, stock markets, and more through unknown black box processes.

Transcript

There was a case recently in Florida where a teenager was arrested for murder. He was a student at the University of Florida and he was accused of murdering his roommate and best friend. They were living together for three months and after three months he killed his best friend and roommate because the murderer had a girlfriend and the girlfriend d... Read More

Key Insights

• 🦻 Siri's role in aiding criminals highlights the ethical dilemmas of AI in criminal activities.
• 🖤 Lack of transparency in black box algorithms raises concerns about accountability and potential misuse.
• 🥺 Algorithmic trading's speed and reliance on automated responses can lead to market volatility and manipulation.
• 💄 Essential systems like healthcare diagnostics and transportation heavily rely on algorithms, making them vulnerable to hacking.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did a teenager use Siri in a criminal case?

The teenager asked Siri where to bury a dead body, showcasing how technology can aid in criminal activities like disposing of evidence.

Q: What are black box algorithms and why are they concerning?

Black box algorithms are opaque systems like FICO credit scoring, raising concerns of lack of transparency and potential for abuse without public understanding.

Q: How did algorithmic trading on Wall Street lead to a market crash?

Automated algorithms reacted to fake news of a White House attack, causing a massive market sell-off due to algorithmic trading without human intervention.

Q: What are the implications of algorithms running essential systems?

Algorithms running vital systems like MRI diagnostics, autopilot in airplanes, and cyberattacks show the potential vulnerabilities and scale of crimes in the digital age.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• A teenager murdered his roommate due to a love triangle, utilized Siri for advice on disposing of the body.

• Black box algorithms in society, like FICO credit scores and airport screenings, raise concerns of abuse and lack of transparency.

• Algorithmic trading on Wall Street led to market crashes due to automated responses to fake news.