Tethers CEO Promotes Adoption of Decentralized AI Models in Efforts to Prevent Hacks

Paolo Ardoino, the CEO of Tether, a blockchain platform, asserts that safeguarding people and privacy can only be accomplished if AI models are localized. Ardoino further notes that locally executable AI models would guarantee the resilience and independence of these models. He highlights the advanced technology available to users, such as smartphones and laptops, stating that these devices possess sufficient power to fine-tune large language models (LLMs) with users’ own data, thereby preserving enhancements locally. Ardoino considers this approach to be a paradigm shift in terms of user privacy and independence, enabling users to benefit from powerful AI-driven experiences and data analysis while retaining complete control over their information. Tether recently announced its expansion into AI and is actively exploring the integration of locally executable models into its AI solutions.
This development follows a recent hacking incident involving OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT. In early 2023, a hacker gained access to OpenAI’s internal messaging systems, compromising the company’s AI design details. The hacker reportedly stole information from sensitive discussions among OpenAI employees regarding the company’s technologies. Additionally, it was discovered that conversations of macOS users on ChatGPT were not encrypted but stored in plain-text files. These revelations came shortly after Apple’s announcement of integrating ChatGPT into its “Apple Intelligence” lineup of AI-powered products and services. Although the issue has been resolved, questions remain regarding why it occurred in the first place. Some speculate that OpenAI may have accessed the chat logs for further development and training of ChatGPT.
OpenAI, along with Google, Meta, and Microsoft, is one of the major developers of high-level AI models. Concerns have been raised by industry analysts and governments worldwide regarding the implications of Big Tech’s monopoly over AI models on user privacy and data control. Many advocate for the decentralization of AI, with initiatives such as 6079 aiming to challenge Big Tech’s dominance in the AI industry for a more equitable future.