The safety of OpenAI’s technology also has been called into question under Altman, after reports surfaced that the company allegedly used illegal non-disclosure agreements and required employees to reveal whether they had been in contact with authorities, as a way for it to cover up any security issues related to AI development.
Effect of the move as yet unknown
It remains to be seen what, if any, impact Altman’s stepping back from OpenAI’s safety board will have on AI governance, which is still in its infancy, noted Abhishek Sengupta, practice director at Everest Group.
However, it appears to be a sign that the company recognizes “the importance of neutrality in AI governance efforts,” and could be willing to be more open about how it is managing AI security and safety risks, he told Computerworld.