The Pentagon wants $30 million to build an AI-powered lie detector
The US Pentagon is seeking $30 million to develop 'Polygraph+', an AI-powered lie detection system for vetting staff and identifying leakers. Critics argue that AI-enabled lie detection is scientifically flawed and ethically problematic.
Why it matters
The project raises significant questions about the reliability of AI in high-stakes security environments and the potential for government overreach.
Polygraph+ will use new sensor technologies and AI to vet staff and hunt leakers. Experts say AI-enabled lie detection is “the worst of both worlds”.
The US government wants to spend $30.3 million over the next five years on an improved form of lie detector, according to a Department of Defense budget request . The program, called “Polygraph+” or “Polygraph Next”, will focus on scoring algorithms that use artificial intelligence and machine learning and on a technique called “standoff sensing”, which refers to the ability to take physiological readings from a subject without attaching a device to their person.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in