AI pioneer proposes enhanced data security measures

As a member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference for three years, Qi Xiangdong, chairman of cybersecurity company Qi-Anxin Technology Group, has shown his shift from a business leader to a public policy adviser with his specialties.

He said that he never made any suggestions without visiting and investigating the front lines. During the 2025 two sessions, he made proposals on artificial intelligence security and software industry development. "AI is a key technology in this new technological revolution, making our lives more productive and convenient. Yet, it also brings security risks like data breaches and fraud," he said.

For instance, during this Spring Festival, the introduction of the domestic large-scale model Deep-Seek has sparked broad discussions. At the same time, Qi-Anxin has detected many network attacks targeting DeepSeek.

"In the future, AI-focused technologies will lead to a new industrial revolution, creating a fully connected digital society. This makes network and data security even more crucial," he added.

As AI advances, Qi highlighted the growing security challenges with large models. To tackle these issues, he suggested improving security through technology, policies and more applications to ensure its health growth.

"AI is a precise and innovative field driven by entrepreneurs. Thus, local governments should continue supporting private scientific and technological companies, to meet their needs for sustainable development," he said.

Born in 1964 in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region, Qi received his bachelor's degree at Changchun Institute of Posts and Telecommunications in 1986 and his MBA at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. He founded Qihoo 360 Technology Co and became its chief executive in 2005. In 2014, he founded Qi-Anxin, which focuses on network safety.

As a member of the CPPCC National Committee, he spends significant time each year visiting companies, universities, and grassroots organizations to learn more about society and industries and give better political suggestions.

He has traveled to various places with the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce, listening to private companies' concerns during their development.

"Some of the suggestions I made have received positive feedback from relevant governmental departments, which is truly motivating," he said.

Last year, Qi consulted on speeding up the creation of a secure and efficient financial infrastructure system and participated in a themed study by the CPPCC National Committee to enhance business stability. During that time, he shared his view on improving the business environment and expediting the establishment of a reliable financial infrastructure system.

Looking back on his three years of service, Qi said the CPPCC is a very special platform and being a member of it requires particular competency. "On this aspect, I have been continuously learning from other veteran members," he said. "More importantly, I have been integrating my specialty, AI and software technology into my service, which helps me give better political suggestions and proposals."

He said with his more profound understanding and enriched experience, he will contribute more while fulfilling his advisory role in the future.

dujuan@chinadaily.com.cn