Postmasters across the country had their lives ruined by Fujitsu's faulty computer system, but now a new technology is raising even greater concerns - Artificial Intelligence (AI). With its ability to deceive, there are fears that AI could ignite a "disinformation warfare" as major elections take place worldwide this year.

As crucial elections are held in various countries including the US, India, Europe, and others, hostile states and actors are expected to exploit AI to manipulate and influence voters. The power of "deepfake" technology, which can create convincing fake videos and images, has already demonstrated its potential to sway elections.

These concerns have led to the World Economic Forum ranking AI-generated disinformation as one of the most severe global risks in its 2024 report. The impact of AI on elections is becoming increasingly significant, and the potential consequences are alarming.

In addition to the manipulation of elections, there are also worries surrounding AI's impact on the workplace. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) warned last year that nearly a third of jobs are at risk of being automated. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, even believes that AI has the potential to replace all human employees.

However, perhaps the most profound fear is the possibility of AI evolving to a point where it becomes uncontrollable. The technology has already made its way into various aspects of our lives. Students are utilizing AI to write their essays, news bulletins in many countries are delivered by virtual presenters, and some individuals have even developed emotional attachments to their chatbots.

The concern is that we cannot allow a situation where this technology is prioritized over human professionals such as doctors, police officers, or scientists. Lives could be destroyed if AI is relied upon more than human expertise. The potential for an intelligent AI system that can think for itself to emerge raises further concerns.

As AI continues to progress and infiltrate different spheres of society, it is vital to address the ethical implications and maintain human control over this powerful technology. The consequences of AI-driven disinformation or a complete replacement of human workers are significant and require careful consideration as we navigate this rapidly advancing technological landscape.

In the face of these challenges, it is crucial for governments, organizations, and individuals to work together to establish regulations and guidelines that promote responsible and ethical use of AI. Balancing the potential benefits of AI with the preservation of human control and well-being is imperative to ensure a safe and prosperous future.