The Applications of Machine Learning in Cryptography and Cryptanalysis; AI Chatbots and Mental Health

In 2022, there were 1802 data compromises in the United States, leaving the personal information of 422 million individuals vulnerable. In some ways, technology has made personal information and assets more secure. Security practices such as data encryption and two-factor
authentication have made it more difficult for other people to access personal information. However, technology does create other vulnerabilities. If those security measures were breached, a lot more people’s personal information will be compromised. Digital security is important for services that people use often, such as social media.
Social media allows people thousands of miles apart to contact each other almost instantly. According to Pews Research, 72% of Americans say they use social media. One can expect that because social media being widespread and talking to other people is so convenient, most people are not lonely. However, according to Cigna, 58% of people reported feeling lonely in 2021. Loneliness is associated with health concerns, such as a weakened immune system, high blood pressure, and sleep disorder. Social media might even cause loneliness. Some studies show that internet use is correlated with symptoms of depression.
While technology has solved made life more convenient, it also has created new problems. Technology in the form of artificial intelligence and machine learning can be used to solve these new issues. Machine learning could be used to create a more complicated and secure cryptosystem. If companies adopt stronger security practices, including using machine learning for encryption, personal data will become more difficult for hackers to access. AI chatbots, particularly those that act like a human, can help improve the mental health of people, especially those who experience loneliness.

School of Engineering and Applied Science
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Technical Advisor: Briana Morrison
STS Advisor: Travis Elliot