Lam lays down law on potential AI misues, breakouts

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam emphasized that laws addressing artificial intelligence governance may not yet exist, but the absence of specific legislation does not mean there is a legal void for tackling AI misuse. During his Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee highlighted that the safe utilization of AI is as vital as leveraging it for progress.

Lee outlined seven critical strategies, encompassing the formation of a specialized task force under the Department of Justice to assess the necessity of regulating minors' social media usage and their interactions with AI, along with examining legal liability for AI product-related accidents. The Law Reform Commission is currently examining the potential need for new legislation to address deepfake-generated pornographic images and AI-driven online scams, aiming to deliver a report to the government.

Lam expressed deep concern over the potential harm that could arise from AI misuse, vowing to expedite legislation if deemed necessary. The justice minister underscored that existing technology-neutral laws could be employed to prosecute individuals who exploit technology for criminal purposes. According to Lam, deception is deemed criminal if someone employs any instrument or tool to facilitate their commission of deceptive conduct, regardless of the tool's sophistication or simplicity, as long as it aids in committing a crime.

"I want to make it clear that there's no misconception that there's nothing at all to regulate the misuse of AI technology for criminal activities at the moment," Lam stated.

Lam indicated that the task force on minors' social media use and AI interactions would be established as soon as possible. This group will collaborate with other bureaus and departments, as well as study international practices to develop the most appropriate approach for Hong Kong in addressing this issue. However, Lam stressed that legislative intervention is merely one of several options, which must be complemented by other measures.