The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a comprehensive set of recommendations aimed at ensuring the safe and secure deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) in critical infrastructure. The “Roles and Responsibilities Framework for Artificial Intelligence in Critical Infrastructure“ outlines clear guidelines for stakeholders across the AI supply chain, from developers to operators, to mitigate risks while harnessing AI’s transformative potential.
This pioneering framework reflects the collaborative efforts of the Artificial Intelligence Safety and Security Board, a public-private advisory group established by DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas. The board comprises leaders from industry, academia, civil society, and government, all united in their mission to address AI safety and security in vital sectors such as energy, transportation, and digital networks.
A First-of-Its-Kind Approach to AI Safety
AI is increasingly embedded in critical infrastructure, improving resilience and efficiency. It powers systems that detect earthquakes, predict power outages, and streamline essential services like mail distribution. However, DHS warns that improper implementation could leave these systems vulnerable to manipulation or failure.
“AI offers a once-in-a-generation opportunity to improve the strength and resilience of U.S. critical infrastructure, and we must seize it while minimizing its potential harms,” said Secretary Mayorkas. He urged stakeholders to adopt the framework, stating, “The choices organizations and individuals make today will determine the impact this technology will have tomorrow.”
The framework addresses three primary vulnerabilities in AI for critical infrastructure:
- Attacks using AI – Exploiting AI to target systems or data.
- Attacks targeting AI systems – Manipulating or disabling AI tools.
- Design and implementation failures – Risks stemming from poorly developed or deployed AI.
Key Stakeholder Roles
The framework offers tailored guidance for different entities involved in the AI ecosystem:
- Cloud and Compute Infrastructure Providers
These organizations are tasked with securing the environments where AI is developed and deployed. Recommendations include rigorous vetting of suppliers, monitoring for suspicious activity, and establishing reporting pathways for anomalies. - AI Developers
Developers must adopt a “Secure by Design” approach, assess potential model risks, and ensure alignment with ethical standards. They are also encouraged to implement robust privacy practices and support independent evaluations of their models. - Critical Infrastructure Owners and Operators
As the end users of AI, these entities are urged to integrate cybersecurity measures, protect consumer data, and maintain transparency in AI applications. Regular monitoring and collaboration with developers are also emphasized to ensure optimal performance and safety. - Civil Society and Academia
Universities and research institutions are invited to contribute to standards development and assess AI’s real-world impacts. Advocacy groups are encouraged to inform safeguards that protect individual and community rights. - Public Sector Entities
Federal, state, and local governments play a vital role in advancing regulatory frameworks and fostering international cooperation. The framework highlights the importance of collaboration between public agencies to support foundational AI research and set global standards.
Broader Implications
The framework aligns with ongoing federal initiatives, including efforts by the White House, the AI Safety Institute, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, to create a robust foundation for AI governance.
“Ensuring the safe, secure, and trustworthy development and use of AI is vital to the future of American innovation and critical to our national security,” said Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. She praised the framework as complementary to existing measures aimed at securing critical infrastructure.
Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, emphasized the framework’s importance for developers, noting, “Its provisions highlight the need for evaluating model capabilities and building secure systems—key areas for ongoing analysis as AI evolves.”
A Collaborative Path Forward
The framework’s development reflects a multistakeholder approach, with contributions from private industry leaders such as IBM, Salesforce, and Cisco, alongside government agencies and nonprofit organizations.
Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, called the guidelines “a foundation for how business, government, and society can work together to enhance accountability and safety.”
Civil rights organizations have also voiced support. Damon Hewitt, President of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, praised the framework for prioritizing equity and civil rights, stating, “AI must first be safe and effective, defending and promoting equal opportunity.”
The Road Ahead
While the framework is voluntary, its adoption could significantly enhance trust and transparency in AI use, reduce risks, and promote global leadership in AI safety. The DHS emphasizes that the document is a living resource, designed to evolve as technology advances and new challenges emerge.
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