[breppp]

Then when that happens that might be morally objectionable. But probably like any other weapon that already exists, a rocket, missile or gun.

While not everyday a new defense systems is invented that is targeted at statistical weapon that terrorizes civilians.

[slfreference]

In Batman Begins, the villian just makes the drinking water toxic. With todays AI and Biotech, one can create a new bacteria or virus and cripple water supply of cities. I am sure a suitable trained AI can get more creative with such low cost attack vectors.

[nradov]

Nah. You can't just engineer some sort of pathogen which will survive water purification treatments, or grow and reproduce in pure water without any nutrients. Real life isn't like the movies.

[slfreference]

This just means, the addition of the pathogen has to happen after purification treatments. Viruses can stay dormant and activate only within human body, no need for food.

[vibrio]

“Viruses” have a very broad feature set-beyond evoking Batman, it seems like a lot of details need to be hammered out here, even residually chlorinated water can be problematic in maintaining titers. IMO, These days, public health policy (conspiracy?) seems to be a more efficient way to spread pathogens. Not precise targeting tho.

[slfreference]

AI Labs Do "Gain-Of-Function" Research

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/yVSihOtF4ZA