CISA releases first Roadmap for Artificial Intelligence to guide federal AI approach

Following up on President Joe Biden’s executive order on artificial intelligence last month, the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) released its first roadmap detailing a federal approach to developing and implementing AI capabilities. 

The nation’s first Roadmap for AI structured itself around five main lines of effort: 

1. Using AI-enabled software tools ethically and responsibly to strengthen cyber defense and support critical infrastructure
2. Assessing and assisting secure by design AI-based software
3. Protecting critical infrastructure from malicious use of AI
4. Collaboration and communication about AI with other agencies, international partners, and the public
5. Expanding and educating experts for an AI-focused workforce

“DHS has a broad leadership role in advancing the responsible use of AI, and this cybersecurity roadmap is one important element of our work,” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said. “The Biden-Harris Administration is committed to building a secure and resilient digital ecosystem that promotes innovation and technological progress. In last month’s Executive Order, the President called on DHS to promote the adoption of AI safety standards globally and help ensure the safe, secure, and responsible use and development of AI. CISA’s roadmap lays out the steps the agency will take as part of our Department’s broader efforts to leverage AI and mitigate its risks to our critical infrastructure and cyber defenses.”

In October, Biden issued a sweeping Executive Order directing DHS to promote the adoption of AI safety standards, protect the United States and its critical infrastructure, reduce risks from AI, and help the country attract and retain related talent.