AI's growing mathematical prowess is forcing a rethink of cyber security preparations long dominated by quantum threats. Regulators like the UK Financial Conduct Authority are warning companies to switch encryption methods to protect sensitive information online. This follows Open AI's unveiling of hundreds of mathematical papers, including proofs for longstanding problems, which sparked controversy and a $5 million pledge to a maths foundation.
Experts warn AI could soon crack core cryptography methods protecting online bank accounts and databases. While AI has yet to break existing methods, its advances in algorithmic design and number theory have increased the capacity to solve previously hard problems. One widely used method relies on multiplying large prime numbers, where the reverse process is currently hard for computers.
The Association for Human Mathematics has attacked Open AI, urging mathematicians to stop working with the company. Cyber threats are evolving quickly as AI and quantum computing advance, with the FCA trialling supervisory tools with 50 large institutions to assess preparedness. Firms are advised not to wait for guidance, as the regulator plans to share practical advice for the 35,000 financial services companies it supervises in the UK next month.
Source: Financial Times Companies · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing