In a decade since Google DeepMind’s AlphaGo made headlines by defeating renowned South Korean Go player Lee Sedol, artificial intelligence has significantly transformed the landscape of the ancient board game. AI’s influence has not only challenged long-held strategies but has also introduced innovative tactics that players are now striving to master. As the game evolves, many top players have begun to emulate AI’s moves, prioritizing machine-derived strategies over their own creativity. This shift has led to a new norm in professional Go, where reliance on AI tools has become essential for competition. Critics argue that this trend threatens the game’s intrinsic creativity, while others believe that there remains ample opportunity for human innovation amidst the mechanical guidance.
On a different front, the cybersecurity landscape is witnessing a troubling development as threats against researchers escalate. In April 2024, cybersecurity expert Allison Nixon, the Chief Research Officer at Unit 221B, found herself the target of alarming death threats from an individual known online as “Waifu.” Nixon, who has dedicated her career to tracking cybercriminals, had previously engaged with the Waifu persona due to their notorious activities. However, the threats prompted her to shift her focus back to this individual, aiming to expose their identity and bring them to justice. This incident highlights the increasing risks faced by cybersecurity professionals as they confront digital criminals, often at great personal peril.
Source: The Download: how AI is shaking up Go, and a cybersecurity mystery via MIT Technology Review