Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt has issued a stark warning about the potential misuse of artificial intelligence in biological warfare, predicting that AI-enabled biological attacks could become a reality as soon as 2025. Speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Schmidt emphasized that AI’s rapid advancement could enable rogue states and bad actors to develop biological weapons more efficiently. He specifically highlighted how AI could be used to engineer dangerous pathogens by identifying genetic sequences that could make viruses more lethal or transmissible. Schmidt stressed that the combination of AI and biological research poses unprecedented risks, as AI systems can accelerate the discovery and modification of biological agents. The former Google executive called for immediate action to establish international frameworks and security measures to prevent such scenarios. He emphasized that current biosecurity measures may be insufficient against AI-enhanced threats and urged for stronger global cooperation in regulating dual-use AI technologies. Schmidt’s warnings align with growing concerns in the security community about AI’s potential military applications and its role in asymmetric warfare. The discussion highlighted the urgent need for proactive measures to prevent AI misuse in biological weapons development, including enhanced international monitoring systems and stricter controls on AI research in sensitive areas. These warnings come amid broader debates about AI safety and the need for responsible development of artificial intelligence technologies.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/eric-schmidt-ai-risks-biological-attacks-rogue-states-2025-2