Better understanding of AI cybersecurity risks needed, says TikTok’s Chew Shou Zi

TikTok's CEO, Chew Shou Zi, emphasized the importance of understanding AI cybersecurity risks during a speech at the DBS Asia Future Forward conference. He stated that there is a "non-zero chance" that AI could surpass human beings in certain aspects. The Silicon Valley exec expressed concern over the real cybersecurity threats posed by AI and called for increased education in this area.

Users may inadvertently grant agentic AI models excessive permissions, leading to unintended consequences, such as excessive spending when granting credit card access. Agentic AI models, designed to carry out tasks, can reduce costs but also pose security challenges. Chew advised businesses to develop effective tools to counter the rapid decrease in spam creation costs.

He urged individuals to engage with AI hands-on and cautioned against overenthusiasm in its use. Chew also highlighted the potential for AI to contribute to significant scientific breakthroughs in the near future. However, he cautioned that short-term adoption hurdles may slow progress but should not lead to underestimating AI's long-term importance.