Generative AI and the Future of Public Security: Are Police Prepared?

• In Event: POLWG Panel 13. Policing in the Digital Age: Reflections on current practice and preparedness to police the online world

Abstract

As generative AI technology rapidly advances, so too does its potential for misuse in ways that threaten public security. In this exploratory study, we examine whether Canadian police view the malicious use of AI, such as deepfakes, as a legitimate public safety concern — and more critically, whether they are prepared to respond. Drawing on in-depth interviews with police leaders from municipal, regional, provincial, and national agencies across Canada, our findings reveal a troubling reality: while preliminary discussions are occurring at higher levels, Canadian policing remains largely unprepared to tackle this emerging threat. Grounded in Cronin’s (2022) work on how terrorist groups adopt open technological innovations, alongside recent literature on malevolent innovation, this presentation will highlight a significant national security gap and call for urgent attention to policing strategies in the AI era.

Authors

• Laura Huey, University of Western Ontario

• Lorna Ferguson, University of Regina

• Cole Heffren, University of Western Ontario

• Meaghan Furlano, University of Western Ontario