MIT AI Risk Repository · Risk Sub-Category · 49.02.01
Risks from product functionality issues
Category: Risks from Malfunctions
Description
"Product functionality issues occur when there is confusion or misinformation about what a general- purpose AI model or system is capable of. This can lead to unrealistic expectations and overreliance on general- purpose AI systems, potentially causing harm if a system fails to deliver on expected capabilities. These functionality misconceptions may arise from technical difficulties in assessing an AI model's true capabilities on its own,or predicting its performance when part of a larger system. Misleading claims in advertising and communications can also contribute to these misconceptions."
From International Scientific Report on the Safety of Advanced AI (Bengio2024), as extracted by the MIT AI Risk Repository (CC BY 4.0).
Classification
- Subdomain
- 5.1 Overreliance and unsafe use
- Causal entity
- Other
- Intent
- Unintentional
- Timing
- Other
Subdomain definition: Users anthropomorphizing, trusting, or relying on AI systems, leading to emotional or material dependence and inappropriate relationships with or expectations of AI systems. Trust can be exploited by malicious actors (e.g., to harvest personal information or enable manipulation), or result in harm from inappropriate use of AI in critical situations (e.g., medical emergency). Overreliance on AI systems can compromise autonomy and weaken social ties.
Real-world incidents in this subdomain
- Lawsuit Alleged ChatGPT (GPT-4o) Encouraged Colorado Man's Suicide After Prolonged 'AI Companion' Chats
- Large-Scale Mental Health Crises Allegedly Associated with ChatGPT Interactions
- Google Gemini Reportedly Reinforced Delusions, Allegedly Contributing to Florida User's Near-Harm Episode and Suicide
- Family Reportedly Discovers ChatGPT Logs Detailing Suicidal Ideation Prior to Daughter's Death
- Purported AI Monitoring Software Reportedly Flags Unsent Joke Threat, Leading to Arizona Student Suspension
- ChatGPT Allegedly Reinforced Delusions Before Greenwich, Connecticut Murder-Suicide
How other frameworks describe this risk
Other entries from Bengio2024
- Malicious Use Risks
- Harm to individuals through fake content
- Harm to individuals through fake content
- Disinformation and manipulation of public opinion
- Cyber offence
- Cyber offence
- Cyber offence
- Dual use science risks
- Risks from Malfunctions
- Risks from product functionality issues
- Risks from product functionality issues
- Risks from product functionality issues