How AI is Helping to Prevent Another 9/11 Tragedy
It’s been almost 20 years since the tragic events of 9/11, when terrorists hijacked four planes, causing the deaths of 2996 people. In the aftermath of the attacks, the United States government created numerous agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security, to ensure that such a catastrophic event never occurs again.
One of the ways that the government and security agencies are utilizing technology is through Artificial Intelligence (AI). AI is rapidly evolving, and its potential to detect, predict, and prevent terrorism is becoming increasingly evident.
Intelligence Gathering and Analysis
AI is used to process massive amounts of data from multiple sources, such as social media, mobile apps, and data streams from satellites and sensors. It can analyze and detect patterns that humans might not see, allowing for a more accurate understanding of potential threats.
The National Security Agency (NSA) is utilizing AI technology to analyze data from satellite imagery, social-media posts, financial transactions, and other sources to detect suspicious activity before an attack occurs. The NSA has also created a tool called “Accurate Benefits of Common Operating Picture” (AB-COP), which uses AI to identify threats and provide recommended actions to prevent them.
Identifying Travelers on Watchlists
Before boarding a flight, passengers are screened to identify potential threats. AI technology can scan through numerous databases to identify whether a passenger is on a watchlist. This can help prevent terrorists from traveling under an alias, making it more difficult for them to carry out an attack.
The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency is using AI to facilitate this process. The agency is also testing facial recognition technology to improve identity verification at airports. This technology confirms a passenger’s identity by comparing the facial features on their passport photo to what is captured by a camera at the boarding gate.
Conclusion
AI is transforming the way we approach national security, and its potential for detecting and preventing terrorism is rapidly increasing. While AI is not a panacea, it provides unprecedented abilities to process vast amounts of data and recognize patterns quickly. As AI technology continues to mature and evolve, it will play an increasingly important role in keeping people safe from harm.
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