Researchers from West Virginia University (WVU), Marshall University, and Florida International University have secured a $1.75 million grant from the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to explore the cybersecurity needs of artificial intelligence technologies.
The AI-CRAFT project, led by Professor Anurag Srivastava, aims to develop ways to secure the rapidly evolving technology as it is being integrated into larger real-time applications. With artificial intelligence systems becoming more complex and incorporating millions of data points to mimic human brain functions, the research team is focused on ensuring the security and safety of these systems.
Srivastava highlighted the importance of understanding potential attack vectors on AI systems, such as reverse engineering or poisoning the AI to behave in unintended ways. The research also includes developing secure data practices, access controls, and continuous monitoring to assess the security and usefulness of AI systems, especially in critical systems like robots and the power grid.
In addition to advancing cybersecurity measures for AI technologies, the project will provide hands-on opportunities for students to gain valuable skills and knowledge in the rapidly evolving cybersecurity industry. The new Institute for Cyber Security in Huntington, set to break ground on May 17, will further support research efforts and educational initiatives in the field.
The collaboration between WVU, Marshall University, and Florida International University, supported by DARPA funding, underscores the importance of addressing cybersecurity challenges in artificial intelligence to ensure the safe and effective deployment of these technologies in various applications.