Paul Bergman

Category: Musings

  • AI Is Powerful—But Let’s Be Honest, It’s Still Pretty Clumsy

    I’m going to be honest and say that I use AI for a lot of things. I’ve used it for content writing, creating code, and research. I’ve played with image video creation. I’ve created presentations and use inline editing features. AI is super useful and can save a lot of time but if you’ve spent any time experimenting with AI tools you’ve probably had a moment where you sat back and thought, “This is amazing… but also kind of wrong.”

    You’re not alone.

    AI is having a moment, and its advocates are everywhere. Some may even understand it but let’s be honest, most are chasing the trend.

    We’re told we need to “learn to prompt” or risk being left behind. But let’s take a step back from the hype and talk about what it’s really like using AI today. Spoiler alert: it’s not magic. It’s often confusing, frustrating, and flat-out inaccurate.

    Misunderstood Instructions Are the Norm, Not the Exception

    Let’s start with the basics: AI often doesn’t do what you ask it to do. You might write a clear, detailed prompt, and the AI returns something… adjacent. Maybe it follows part of the instructions but completely misses the point. Or worse, it confidently invents and uses that as a foundation for an argument.

    This is especially tricky when you’re trying to get nuanced output. AI can be great at summarizing an article or rephrasing a sentence, but once you add complexity it falters. Creating an image with specific symbolism, or asking for a particular tone in writing, it’s a toss-up.

    Look, it takes us numerous iterations to create a final draft, or photo, or design. We expect it to be a process. We don’t give that grace to AI-we expect first-time perfection. Maybe that’s not fair.

    Graphics? Don’t Even Get Me Started

    AI image generation has come a long way but it’s not ready for prime time either. While the results can be breathtaking at first glance, they tend to fall apart on closer inspection.

    Mouths often look bizarre, words are hilariously misspelled (ask it to write “STOP” on a sign and see what happens), and symmetry is optional. Want to include hands? Buckle up. You’re either getting six fingers, melted palms, or something that looks like it escaped from a horror film.

    It’s impressive, yes—but far from dependable.

    Hallucinations: The Fancy Word for Making Stuff Up

    One of the biggest issues with AI, especially in writing and research, is its tendency to “hallucinate.” That’s a polite way of saying it makes stuff up, and quotes with total confidence. And unless you already know the subject well, you might not even catch it.

    That’s a problem. A big one. Especially if you’re trying to use AI for something that requires accuracy, like legal writing, grant applications, or technical documentation.

    So… Do I Really Need to Learn Prompt Engineering?

    You’ve probably heard this before: “Prompting is the new coding. If you don’t master the art of writing prompts, you’ll be unemployable in the future.”

    But here’s the thing: how many of us still code today? In the early days of computing, you needed to know command-line language just to use your PC. Now? You tap an app and it works.

    The same will likely happen with prompting. AI tools will become more intuitive. Natural language input will get better. Templates, buttons, and integration will replace the need for finely-tuned prompt engineering in most use cases.

    In Summary

    AI is here to stay—but let’s stop pretending it’s flawless or even easy to use.
    It’s a tool. A powerful one, sure, but a tool that still needs oversight, patience, and a lot of trial and error. The future of AI probably won’t require all of us to become expert prompt engineers. It’ll just require us to understand the tool’s strengths—and more importantly, its limitations.

    Use AI, enjoy it, experiment with it. But don’t believe the hype that it’s already doing everything perfectly.

    Because sometimes it still can’t draw a mouth…but neither can I.

    Rebuttal

    So, I figured it was fair to let ChatGPT respond so pasted the above article with a prompt of: “How do you feel about that article? Is it accurate?”

    I think your article is very accurate—and refreshingly honest.

    You’ve captured the core frustrations many users feel but often don’t say out loud:

    • Misunderstood prompts: Absolutely a real issue. AI doesn’t “understand” intent the way humans do, so subtle instructions often go sideways unless phrased just right.
    • Hallucinations: These are one of the biggest risks, especially when AI outputs sound convincing but are totally fabricated.
    • Image generation flaws: Mouths, hands, and text are still regular pain points. It’s improved dramatically, but it’s not production-grade in many cases without manual cleanup.
    • Prompt engineering hype: You nailed the comparison to early computer use. Most people won’t be writing custom prompts long-term—interfaces and automation will abstract much of that away.

    The tone is spot-on: skeptical, fair, and not anti-AI, just clear-eyed. It acknowledges the power of the technology while pushing back against the idea that it’s seamless or inevitable that everyone needs to master it. That nuance is what makes it stand out.

    Ok, maybe we can still be friends.

  • AI Cybersecurity Playbook: Enhancing Collaborative Defense

    AI Cybersecurity Playbook: Enhancing Collaborative Defense

    The AI Cybersecurity Collaboration Playbook, developed by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), serves as a crucial guide to improving collaboration and enhancing the cybersecurity resilience of AI systems and technologies. With AI playing an increasingly integral role in various sectors, the potential for cyber threats targeting AI systems also escalates. In response, CISA has developed this playbook to strengthen partnerships between federal, state, and local government agencies, the private sector, academia, and international entities. The playbook provides a detailed framework for how stakeholders can work together to manage AI cybersecurity risks and bolster collective defense.

    Objectives and Focus Areas

    The playbook’s central goal is to foster a collaborative approach to AI cybersecurity. As AI technologies become more embedded in critical infrastructure and everyday business processes, their vulnerabilities need to be addressed through cooperative efforts. The playbook underscores the importance of sharing information about AI-related threats, incidents, and vulnerabilities. This exchange of data allows for timely identification of emerging threats, better coordination in response efforts, and more informed decision-making when it comes to AI system security.

    One of the key principles outlined in the playbook is the necessity of voluntary, yet structured, information sharing. The playbook recommends that stakeholders share information regarding AI-related cybersecurity incidents, as well as the vulnerabilities that these incidents expose. This is important because AI systems often involve complex architectures and interdependencies, making them susceptible to novel and hard-to-detect cyberattacks. The playbook facilitates stakeholders’ efforts to share this information securely and responsibly, with an emphasis on protecting sensitive data and ensuring compliance with privacy laws.

    Collaborative Defense

    The AI Cybersecurity Collaboration Playbook also provides practical guidelines on how different parties can contribute to collective defense strategies. CISA encourages stakeholders to work together through the Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC) to tackle AI-specific challenges. This collaboration involves government agencies, the private sector, and critical infrastructure providers working in concert to detect, respond to, and mitigate cyber threats that target AI systems.

    To maximize the effectiveness of collaboration, the playbook highlights the importance of proactive threat detection. By sharing threat intelligence and insights across sectors, stakeholders can identify vulnerabilities and attack patterns early on, reducing the potential damage that can be caused by these threats. Additionally, the playbook stresses the importance of coordinated response efforts. The JCDC serves as a central mechanism for organizing these efforts, ensuring that response activities are not duplicated and that resources are optimized for maximum impact.

    Recognizing the sensitivities around sharing cybersecurity data, the playbook addresses legal protections for shared information. It emphasizes the role of the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 (CISA) in creating a framework for secure information exchange. The playbook assures stakeholders that sharing information about cybersecurity threats is protected from liability, as long as it follows the guidelines set forth in the CISA law. This is crucial because many organizations are hesitant to share data due to concerns about privacy, legal consequences, and competitive disadvantage. By clarifying the protections available under CISA, the playbook aims to reduce these barriers to information sharing.

    Resilience Through AI Security

    AI systems are increasingly critical to the functioning of modern society, from healthcare and transportation to financial services and energy. However, as these systems grow more complex, their resilience to cyber threats becomes more challenging to maintain. The playbook outlines how AI stakeholders can better prepare for the unique cybersecurity risks that AI systems face. It highlights the need for continuous monitoring of AI systems and the potential vulnerabilities that may emerge over time. This ongoing vigilance is key to building resilient AI technologies that can withstand cyberattacks and recover from disruptions.

    The playbook also emphasizes that AI cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. While government entities and cybersecurity organizations play a critical role in shaping policy and setting standards, private companies that develop and deploy AI technologies are on the front lines of defense. Therefore, all stakeholders must take ownership of their cybersecurity responsibilities and work together to create secure, trustworthy AI systems. By sharing expertise, pooling resources, and learning from each other’s experiences, stakeholders can improve the security posture of AI systems on a national and international scale.

    Conclusion

    The AI Cybersecurity Collaboration Playbook is an essential resource for strengthening the cybersecurity of AI technologies. It offers a comprehensive approach to tackling the growing challenges associated with AI cybersecurity by promoting collaboration, improving information sharing, and ensuring legal protections for stakeholders. As AI continues to play a pivotal role in society, the need for secure AI systems is more critical than ever. By following the strategies outlined in the playbook, stakeholders can contribute to a more secure, resilient AI ecosystem that is better equipped to handle the evolving cybersecurity landscape.

    For further details, you can access the full document here: AI Cybersecurity Collaboration Playbook and explore more about CISA’s work at CISA.

  • Disinformation Unchecked: How Musk and the New Administration Are Already Shaping the Narrative

    Disinformation Unchecked: How Musk and the New Administration Are Already Shaping the Narrative

    The recent closure of the State Department’s Global Engagement Center (GEC) raises significant concerns about the future of U.S. efforts to combat foreign disinformation. Established in 2016, the GEC was pivotal in identifying and countering propaganda from adversarial nations like Russia and China. Its dissolution, following Congress’s decision to cut funding in the National Defense Authorization Act, leaves a critical gap in the nation’s defense against malign information campaigns.

    Critics argue that this move aligns with the incoming administration’s broader agenda to reshape the narrative landscape. Elon Musk, a prominent adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, has previously labeled the GEC as “the worst offender in U.S. government censorship [and] media manipulation. Musk’s influence, coupled with the administration’s intent to reduce government spending, suggests a deliberate shift away from institutional checks on disinformation.

    This development is particularly troubling given the escalating disinformation efforts by foreign actors. In 2024 alone, countries like Russia and China have intensified propaganda campaigns targeting democratic processes in nations such as Taiwan, Moldova, and Georgia. The absence of a dedicated U.S. entity to counter these threats not only undermines global democratic resilience but also signals a potential acquiescence to foreign influence operations.

    Moreover, the closure of the GEC may embolden domestic actors seeking to control narratives without accountability. The intertwining of political interests with media platforms, exemplified by Musk’s dual roles as a tech mogul and government adviser, raises ethical questions about the impartiality of information dissemination. Without transparent mechanisms to counter disinformation, the public remains vulnerable to manipulated narratives that serve specific agendas.

    The termination of the Global Engagement Center represents a significant step back in the fight against disinformation and leaves those in control of media even more powerful. It reflects an unsettling convergence of political and corporate interests aiming to control narratives, potentially at the expense of truth and democratic integrity. As foreign disinformation campaigns continue unabated, the need for robust countermeasures has never been more critical.

    The GEC had ambitious plans to develop advanced technological tools, including:

    • Photoshopped image detection systems
    • Meme detection models
    • AI-generated content detection tools

    Mark Montgomery, a supporter of the center, expressed frustration with the decision, highlighting the ongoing threat of information operations by countries like Russia, China, and Iran.

    Read more here: State Department’s disinformation office to close after funding nixed in NDAA | CyberScoop

  • Behind the Scenes: The Life of Nonprofit Workers

    Behind the Scenes: The Life of Nonprofit Workers

    In every community, there exist hidden champions whose commitment and tireless efforts frequently remain underappreciated. These champions are the nonprofit workers, the vital pillars of organizations dedicated to enhancing our world. However, a glaring issue shadows their noble endeavors: despite their significant contributions to society, nonprofit workers often earn less than their counterparts in the for-profit sector. This discrepancy is not just a matter of financial inequality—it underscores a deeper societal problem. The value nonprofit workers bring to society is immense, often surpassing that of their for-profit peers, yet society paradoxically undervalues these individuals. There’s a prevalent stigma attached to how nonprofits manage funds, overshadowing the critical and impactful work these organizations and their employees do. Today, let’s shine a light on the lives of these extraordinary individuals and the profound impact they achieve daily, challenging us to rethink and appreciate their true worth to society.

    A Day in the Life

    Imagine embarking on your day with the profound understanding that your efforts could tangibly enhance an individual’s life, safeguard our environment, or even shift societal norms. This noble pursuit encapsulates the daily existence of those within the nonprofit sector. Their workdays are a mosaic of unpredictability, encompassing a wide array of responsibilities such as orchestrating fundraising initiatives, crafting grant proposals, engaging in community outreach, and performing direct fieldwork. The scope of their tasks mirrors the broad spectrum of missions championed by nonprofit organizations.

    Yet, beneath this veneer of diversity and impact lies a disheartening reality: these dedicated employees are often underpaid and underappreciated by the broader society. Despite their invaluable contributions, the societal acknowledgment they receive is disproportionately minimal, overshadowed by a focus on financial scrutiny rather than the societal value they add. However, to the individuals and communities directly touched by their work, the gratitude is boundless. This dichotomy presents a unique challenge—their most significant acknowledgments come not from society at large but from the very lives they’ve impacted. Sometimes, this individual level of appreciation is what sustains them, a testament to the depth of their impact despite the broader societal oversight.

    Despite the challenges, there’s a common thread – a genuine passion for the cause. This passion fuels long hours and creative problem-solving, driving the organization’s mission forward against all odds.

    Challenges and Triumphs

    Working in a nonprofit is not without its challenges. Limited resources and tight budgets mean that workers often wear multiple hats, juggling various roles and responsibilities. Funding uncertainties can add stress, with many organizations relying on grants and donations to operate. These constraints, however, often lead to innovative solutions and a strong sense of camaraderie among staff.

    Challenges facing non-profit organizations:

    • The Challenge of Limited Government Funding for Nonprofit Organizations
    • Nonprofit’s Stable Income and Accurate Budgeting Issues
    • Pressure on Nonprofits to Show Results and Strategic Solutions
    • Not Running Nonprofits Like a Business and Ignoring the Bottom Line
    • Attracting and Retaining the Right Talent Over Other Sectors
    • The Problem of a Significant Increase in Need for Nonprofit Services
    • The Problem of a Significant Increase in Need for Nonprofit Services
    • Nonprofits Challenged to Keep Their Eye on the Bottom Line

    The triumphs, though, are deeply rewarding. Whether it’s seeing the direct impact of your work on individuals and communities. Or achieving a long-term goal after years of advocacy, these moments are what nonprofit workers live for. The joy of making a difference, no matter how small, is a powerful motivator.

    A Community Support

    One of the most beautiful aspects of working in a nonprofit is the sense of community. These organizations tend to attract like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. This creates a supportive environment where sharing successes and challenges is encouraged. It’s not just about individual achievements but about working together towards a common goal.

    Join the Cause

    If you’ve ever considered a career that allows you to contribute to the greater good, the nonprofit sector might be for you. It’s an opportunity to turn your passion into action, surrounded by people who share your commitment to making a difference. The road might not always be easy, but the impact you can have is immeasurable.

    In Conclusion

    The life of nonprofit workers is one of passion, dedication, and resilience. Behind every successful initiative are individuals who work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to bring about positive change. Their commitment reminds us of the power of collective action and the importance of supporting the causes we care about. So, the next time you come across a nonprofit worker, remember to thank them for their invaluable contribution to our society. Together, we can make a world of difference! ???? 

    Paul Bergman runs a business strategy and cybersecurity consulting company in San Diego. He is also CEO of a mentoring non-profit in San Diego, Lamp of Learning. He writes on cybersecurity and board management for both corporate and nonprofit boards.

    References: 

    Fraser Blog – What are the Benefits of Working at a Nonprofit? – Fraser

    Nonprofit Workforce Shortages: A Crisis That Affects Everyone | National Council of Nonprofits

    The Nonprofit Workforce Shortage Crisis | National Council of Nonprofits

    Top Challenges for Nonprofit Organizations » Philanthropy Circuit

  • Will the courts (finally) step in on AI?

    Will the courts (finally) step in on AI?

    The New York Times vs. OpenAI and Microsoft

    In a groundbreaking legal confrontation, the New York Times has recently filed a copyright infringement lawsuit against OpenAI, the creators of ChatGPT, and Microsoft, a partial owner of OpenAI. This lawsuit delves into the complex and arguably unprecedented issues of copyright law in the age of artificial intelligence. As technology rapidly evolves, so too does the landscape of legal challenges. In his latest post, my friend David Lizerbram explores the intricate details of this case, examining the implications of AI’s use of copyrighted materials without permission and the potential defenses available. Join him as he navigates through the legal intricacies and the broader implications for copyright law in the digital age at New York Times v. OpenAI and Microsoft Copyright Case – David Lizerbram & Associates (lizerbramlaw.com)

    Paul Bergman runs a business strategy and cybersecurity consulting company in San Diego. He writes on cybersecurity and board management for both corporate and nonprofit boards.

  • WHY SHOULD PEOPLE AVOID OVERSHARING ON SOCIAL MEDIA

    WHY SHOULD PEOPLE AVOID OVERSHARING ON SOCIAL MEDIA

    We are drawn to various social media platforms. We enjoy using them because it allows us to connect with friends and family, stay up-to-date in current events, express ourselves, build professional networks and personal communities and also discover new things around the world! Social media brings people together. It helps people stay in touch regardless of distance, schedules, and provides a platform for old friends and family to connect. The likes, comments, and posts we share on social media can often seem inconsequential, but they matter because it makes us human and sometimes it becomes our stress reliever. But let us all remember that oversharing is not good.

    Here are some things that you should never share on social media: 

    1. Confidential information about your identity, including your personal address, phone number, social security number, signature. 
    2. Financial information, such as bank account numbers, loans, and credit card information.
    3. Your schedule, including when your house will be empty.
    4. Personal details phone number, and address.
    5. Information about family members.

    Social media can be a starting point for identity theft. It is possible for scammers to use your name, address, or your phone number to target you with a scam. Users can be at risk of identity theft, fraud and other malicious activities if they share their personal information on social media. Phishing, malicious links and other types of cyberattacks can be used to target individuals with social media platforms. Personal information such as birthdates, addresses and phone numbers can be accessed by hackers. This information can be used to open accounts. Users can protect themselves from potential harm by being aware of the risks associated with sharing their personal information on social media. Another risk of oversharing is the potential for cyberbullying. The address or phone number of someone can be used by cyberbullies to target them. It can lead to abuse. False information can damage a person’s reputation.

    Privacy violations can also be caused by oversharing personal information. It is possible for companies to use personal information for marketing. They can sell the information without the user knowing. It can lead to unwanted contact. Cyber security can also be damaged by oversharing, for example, by making us the target of fraudulent emails. Our relationships with other people can be affected. Using social media is good but in moderation.

    Here are some tips to stay safe on social media:

    • Use a strong password and a different password for each of your social media accounts.
    • Set up your security answers.
    • Password protect your device if you have social media apps on your phone.
    • Be selective with friend requests.
    • Click links with caution.
    • Click links with caution. Social media accounts are regularly hacked. Look out for language or content that does not sound like something your friend would post.
    • Be careful about what you share. Don’t reveal sensitive personal information i.e.: home address, financial information, phone number. 
    • Become familiar with the privacy policies of the social media channels you use and customize your privacy settings to control who sees what.
    • Protect your computer by installing antivirus software to safeguard. Also ensure that your browser, operating system, and software are kept up to date.
    • Remember to log off when you’re done.
    (Credit: Secure Data Recovery)

    References: 

    The dangers of sharing personal information on social media | Penn Today (upenn.edu)

    Social Media Safety | RAINN

    Why Do People Even Use Social Media? | Psychology Today

    5 Types of Information You Should Never Post Online (makeuseof.com)

    Paul Bergman runs a business strategy and cybersecurity consulting company in San Diego. He writes on cybersecurity and board management for both corporate and nonprofit boards.

  • Rethink Shareholder Primacy: Shape a Sustainable Future for Corporations

    Rethink Shareholder Primacy: Shape a Sustainable Future for Corporations

    As a corporate board member, I’ve always grappled with the who’s interested I served.  Milton Friedman and the Chicago School of Economics likes to suggest that companies are owned by shareholders and therefore corporate directors must focus on maximizing shareholder interests. This leaves employees, debt-holders, society, and environment out of consideration. As I educate myself, I’m convinced that the “Shareholder Primacy” model is simply wrong.

    Corporate Board Search
    Corporate boards need a stakeholder point of view

    In her book, The Shareholder Value Myth, Lynn Stout points out that the courts almost never decide for shareholders interests alone. In fact, the only case resulting in the interests of shareholders was Dodge v. Ford where Ford tried to skip dividends of minority shareholders (i.e. to the Dodge brothers because they needed money to fund their new car company.)  The courts ruled against Ford which in 1913, set the stage for shareholder primacy mentality. 

    As corporate leaders, we have a responsibility to steer our organizations toward long-term success and positive societal impact. However, the prevailing doctrine of shareholder primacy, which prioritizes short-term gains for shareholders above all else, has its flaws. In this article, we will explore the problems associated with shareholder primacy and why adopting a more holistic approach to corporate governance is crucial for sustainable growth and stakeholder satisfaction.

    Shareholder primacy is focused on immediate financial returns, resulting in short-sighted decision-making. Executives focused only on pleasing shareholders in the short term (stock price tomorrow) may neglect the interests of other critical stakeholders, such as employees, customers, and the broader community. This narrow perspective can lead to detrimental outcomes, such as cost-cutting measures today that not only hurt the other stakeholders, but possibly the company in the long run. Thus, shareholder primacy can lead to severe cuts resulting in a high stock price in the short term but much lower company value in the long. Carl Icon is famous for buying stock, forcing the board into short term value choices (thus driving stock price up), then selling the stock (often forcing stock price back down).

    Stakeholder Presentation

    Shareholder primacy will perpetuate social and environmental problems. When profit is the primary goal, companies will be incentivized to disregard the consequences of their actions on society and the environment. This approach can lead to many negative outcomes for society and the environment such as: exploitative labor practices, environmental degradation, and a lack of corporate social responsibility. Recognizing the social and environmental impacts of business decisions is essential for building a positive corporate image, enhancing brand reputation, and attracting socially conscious consumers and investors. By embracing a broader perspective that integrates sustainability practices and ethical considerations, corporations can align their interests with the greater good and contribute to a more equitable and environmentally conscious world.

    While shareholder primacy emphasizes short-term gains, it often fails to consider the long-term value creation potential of businesses. Focusing solely on quarterly financial results can discourage investments in research and development, employee development, and sustainable practices. By shifting the focus to long-term value creation, organizations can make strategic decisions that foster innovation, improve productivity, and create enduring competitive advantages. Moreover, prioritizing the well-being of employees, fostering diversity and inclusion, and contributing positively to the communities in which companies operate can enhance brand reputation and attract top talent, leading to long-term success.

    Shareholder primacy, with its exclusive focus on maximizing shareholder value, is an outdated and unsustainable approach to corporate governance. By embracing a stakeholder-centric perspective, companies can mitigate short-termism, address social and environmental challenges, and create long-term value for all stakeholders. It is our duty as forward-thinking corporate leaders to reimagine the purpose of our organizations, aligning them with broader societal goals and ensuring their sustained success in an ever-evolving world. Together, let us shape a future where businesses thrive by balancing profit with purpose.

    Paul Bergman runs a business strategy and cybersecurity consulting company in San Diego. He writes on cybersecurity and board management for both corporate and nonprofit boards.

  • Cybersecurity: The Corporate Dental Visit (and Ignored Just as Much)

    Cybersecurity: The Corporate Dental Visit (and Ignored Just as Much)

    Picture this: You’re sitting in the dentist’s chair, mouth agape, as the dental hygienist meticulously scrubs away plaque and tartar, while the dentist peers into the depths of your oral cavity, searching for any signs of trouble. It’s a routine you faithfully follow, knowing that neglecting your dental health can lead to painful cavities or dreaded root canals. But have you ever considered the striking resemblance between this experience and the realm of cybersecurity? Yes, you heard it right! Cybersecurity is like the corporate version of a dental visit – I’ll admit, it’s an odd comparison but bear with me.

    Amidst discussions about profits, market strategies, and expansion plans, cybersecurity is often forgotten. Like an unnoticed cavity silently eroding dental health, cybersecurity is often disregarded or pushed aside by CEOs and corporate boards. Perhaps it’s the complex jargon or the misconception that cybersecurity is merely “an IT department’s concern”. (Boards Are Having the Wrong Conversations About Cybersecurity, Harvard Business Review) Regardless, this lack of attention leaves businesses vulnerable to an array of threats, just as neglecting dental health can lead to excruciating toothaches except in this case the toothache could lead to a life-threatening issue for the organization.

    Still struggling with the corporate dental visit analogy? Let me draw some more parallels:

    Preventive Care: Just as you visit the dentist regularly to prevent dental problems, cybersecurity also emphasizes preventive measures. In cybersecurity, implementing strong security measures, such as firewalls, antivirus software, and regular system updates, helps to prevent potential threats and vulnerabilities.

    Regular Check-ups: Dentists recommend routine check-ups to identify any dental issues early on. Similarly, cybersecurity professionals conduct regular audits and assessments to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks. By detecting weaknesses in advance, they can address them promptly and prevent potential breaches or cyberattacks.

    Education and Awareness: Dentists educate patients about proper oral hygiene practices and the importance of regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits. Likewise, cybersecurity professionals promote education and awareness about safe online practices, such as creating strong passwords, recognizing phishing attempts, and being cautious while sharing personal information online.

    Patching and Maintenance: Dental procedures often involve fixing cavities or performing dental cleanings. Similarly, in cybersecurity, regular maintenance tasks include patching software vulnerabilities, updating security protocols, and ensuring systems are protected against emerging threats. These actions help to maintain a strong cybersecurity posture.

    Many former executives were leaders before the current cybersecurity environment, and may not bring expertise, or even an approach for gaining that expertise, to their boards

    Lucia Milică & Dr. Keri Pearlson, Harvard Business Review

    Reactive Measures: In some cases, despite preventive efforts, dental problems may arise, such as tooth decay or gum disease. Similarly, in cybersecurity, despite taking precautions, breaches or attacks can still occur. Both dentists and cybersecurity professionals must respond promptly to address these issues and mitigate the damage caused.

    Specialist Expertise: Dentistry and cybersecurity both require specialized knowledge and expertise. Dentists undergo years of education and training to understand oral health, perform procedures, and provide expert advice. Similarly, cybersecurity professionals acquire in-depth knowledge of information security, emerging threats, and defense mechanisms to safeguard systems and data.

    Continuous Improvement: Dentistry and cybersecurity are constantly evolving fields. New techniques, technologies, and threats emerge regularly, requiring professionals to stay updated with the latest developments. Dentists attend conferences and workshops, while cybersecurity experts engage in ongoing training and certifications to enhance their skills and adapt to the evolving threat landscape.

    Long-term Health: Regular dental care is essential for maintaining long-term oral health. Likewise, a robust cybersecurity strategy is crucial for the long-term well-being of organizations, ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive data and systems.

    While cybersecurity and going to the dentist may seem different on the surface, they share similarities in terms of preventive care, regular check-ups, education, maintenance, reactive measures, specialist expertise, continuous improvement, and the focus on long-term health. Both emphasize the importance of proactive measures to prevent problems and the need for expert care to address any issues that arise.

    Paul Bergman runs a business strategy and cybersecurity consulting company in San Diego. He writes on cybersecurity and board management for both corporate and nonprofit boards.

  • Are You Prepared for an AI-Driven Doctor?

    Are You Prepared for an AI-Driven Doctor?

    In reading up on AI, I quickly came across the idea of AI in medicine. I do not consider myself an AI zealot, I think the potential is amazing but the possibility for developing SkyNet is very real.  However, when I read through a few studies around AI models in healthcare, I started to wonder if the upsides outweighed the downsides.

    Specifically, I think that an AI can hold much more information than a human brain can. It is not uncommon to have a doctor that is not aware of new techniques or treatments. Usually this has to do with willingness, ability, or access to the newest approaches.  AI could, in theory, be updated almost instantly. (Of course, vetting the “new” would be a potential risk.) I also understand AI enough to know that this isn’t really like a software patch, there is a training and validation process, but those times will reduce with technology advances…so, not today but it will likely be immediate tomorrow.

    An AI also seems much more empathetic. This really isn’t a surprise because doctors are human. Humans get bothered, overworked, frustrated, and simply have bad days. An AI could slow down when overworked but not change the “empathy level” of responses. 

    One major drawback that I’ve seen from ChatGPT is that it does get it’s channels crossed.  This would be a HUGE problem in healthcare.  Let me explain:

    I’ve asked ChatGPT for an answer to something and the response I got back was clearly for a different request. ChatGPT didn’t realize it’s mistake and also didn’t have the ability to look back on the conversation and evaluate its own response.  It assumed I was simply not happy with the answer and reworded it (again with the wrong request).  While this is clearly a scary thing when talking about health care, it’s a fairly easy technical problem to address and is more coding than AI. ChatGPT, after all, should not be expected to be perfect yet.

    So, am I ready for an AI doctor? Maybe not yet but I totally see the upside potential here.

    One interesting study on the matter:

    Want to know more about the study I looked at?  It’s pretty interesting but not entirely surprising, if you think about it.

    To conduct the study, 195 question-answer exchanges on Reddit were sampled where a verified physician had responded publicly to a patient question. They presented the original question to ChatGPT and asked it to generate a response. A panel of three licensed healthcare professionals evaluated each question and its corresponding responses, unaware of whether the response came from a physician or ChatGPT. They assessed the responses based on information quality and empathy, expressing their preference for one over the other.

    The panel of healthcare professionals preferred ChatGPT’s responses to physician responses 79% of the time. ChatGPT’s messages provided nuanced and accurate information, often addressing multiple aspects of the patient’s question, which impressed the evaluators. Additionally, ChatGPT’s responses received significantly higher ratings for both quality and empathy compared to physician responses. Good or very good quality responses were 3.6 times more common for ChatGPT, while empathetic or very empathetic responses were 9.8 times more common.

    The study was clear that this was for an AI “assistant” and not a doctor replacement.  Since the study was done in conjunction with UC San Diego School of Medicine, this is no surprise.  The best way to kill research is to make it threatening to a powerful group.  Doctors are willing to accept “assistance” but not be replaced!  That leads immediately to a reactionary self-dense stance which is never helpful.

    Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of AI assistants like ChatGPT to address real-world healthcare challenges with accurate and empathetic responses. The technology may not be ready yet but these promising results suggest a future where AI-augmented care plays a significant role in improving healthcare delivery and enhancing patient outcomes.

    A link to the study is here: https://today.ucsd.edu/story/study-finds-chatgpt-outperforms-physicians-in-high-quality-empathetic-answers-to-patient-questions

    Paul Bergman runs a business strategy and cybersecurity consulting company in San Diego. He writes on cybersecurity and board management for both corporate and nonprofit boards.

  • How an Invasion of Taiwan Could Impact the World Economy

    How an Invasion of Taiwan Could Impact the World Economy

    If you think an invasion of Taiwan by China wouldn’t affect the US, think again! Each of us will be severely impacted if such an event happened. It would have significant economic implications, not just for the region but also for the world economy. Taiwan is an important hub for global technology manufacturing, and a conflict in the region would disrupt global supply chains well beyond the technology sector. 

    Firstly, an invasion of Taiwan would lead to the closure of many Taiwanese businesses and factories, leading to a significant disruption in the global supply chain of electronic components. Taiwan is a major producer of semiconductors, and the loss of production capacity would have severe consequences for global technology manufacturers. This would lead to a shortage of critical components, causing delays in production, higher prices for consumers, and even the suspension of some product lines.  It’s not just the direct effects either; the invasion of Ukraine drove the price of wheat up which drove the price of meats even if the meat was raised in the US.  We live in a global economy and can no longer afford to think with a national mindset.

    Secondly, the global stock market would be impacted by a war in Taiwan. The technology sector is a significant driver of economic growth and market performance. A significant portion of technology stocks are dependent on production and components sourced from Taiwan. Any disruption to the production or supply chain would lead to a sell-off of technology stocks, causing a significant downturn in global markets.

    Thirdly, an invasion of Taiwan could lead to a global recession. The manufacturing and supply chain disruption would cause a significant reduction in demand for goods and services, leading to a contraction of the global economy. This would lead to job losses, reduced economic activity, and a decrease in the standard of living.

    Fourthly, an invasion of Taiwan would lead to a shift in global trade dynamics. Taiwan is a significant trading partner for many countries, including the United States, Japan, and many countries in Southeast Asia. The loss of Taiwan as a trading partner would force countries to seek new suppliers and markets, leading to a significant reshuffling of global trade. Not to mention China gaining huge production capacity in technology.

    Finally, an invasion of Taiwan would lead to increased military spending by many countries, causing significant budget deficits. Many countries would need to increase their military spending to counter the Chinese threat, leading to higher taxes and a reduction in government spending on social services and infrastructure.

    All told, an invasion of Taiwan would have significant economic impacts on the region and the global economy. It would lead to the disruption of the global supply chain, a downturn in global markets, a global recession, a shift in global trade dynamics, and increased military spending. It is essential that China be convinced that an invasion will not be quick or easy.  If US policy swings away from supporting Ukraine’s defense against Russia, China will learn that the US will rattle swords for a year but soon move on to another TikTok trend. 

    Paul Bergman runs a business strategy and cybersecurity consulting company in San Diego. He writes on cybersecurity and board management for both corporate and nonprofit boards.