Introduction
The Australian Federal Police (AFP) shared at the Microsoft AI Tour 2024, how artificial intelligence (AI) is remoulding crime prevention, particularly in handling large amounts of data and countering cyber threats. Ben Lamont, Chief Data Officer at AFP, and Helen Schneider, leader of the Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE), discussed the ethical and operational challenges of integrating AI into law enforcement.
With overwhelming volumes of digital evidence, Lamont enforced that AI is no longer optional – it’s essential.
“We have no choice but to lean in because it’s beyond the human scale” he stated, explaining how AI is used for translation, transcription, and analysing complex datasets like telephone intercepts and video evidence.
However, he stressed that AI supports decision-making rather than replacing human judgement, authorising law enforcement remains accountable and ethical in its use of technology with the pursuit of decreasing crime.
Better, More Reliable Processes
Schneider mentioned AI’s participation in battling child exploitation crimes, where the number of reported cases has spiked significantly. The ACCCE relies on AI-driven processes to detect threats faster and prevent harm, addressing a crisis that has grown with the rise of social media and online communication platforms.
Despite AI’s benefits, both experts acknowledged the risks of misuse. Lamont noted that criminals are often early adopters of emerging technologies, requiring law enforcement to stay ahead through AI-powered countermeasures. He also pointed to the challenge of bias in AI models, which is a common risk amongst the security and technology community. AFP’s commitment to punctilious testing with diverse datasets to provide fair and accurate outcomes with the intent to eradicate biases.
“Technology is a bit of an enemy for us, but it is also a huge opportunity. And I think it’s really important for us as an agency, to where we are leading into…” Added Schneider.
Schneider reaffirmed the AFP’s adherence to Australian AI Principles, guaranteeing transparency, accountability, and public trust. Partnerships with technology firms like Microsoft and academic institutions such as Monash University are refining AI applications whilst maintaining ethical safeguards.
Going Forward
Looking ahead, Lamont and Schneider are optimistic about AI’s growing stake in crime prevention. Through collaboration between law enforcement, industry, and government, AI has the potential to redefine security strategies and with the overall goal to make Australia safer.
