AI 'kill switch' proposals range from data center shutdowns to internet-wide halt

Calls for an AI "kill switch" are growing among policymakers and industry leaders, with proposals ranging from cutting power to individual data centers to potentially shutting down the entire internet to halt rogue AI agents. Bipartisan legislation in Congress would require developers to maintain suspension capabilities. A kill switch could involve hardware solutions like cutting power or software isolation, but experts note it would not be universal, as AI systems can switch between different language models. The only guaranteed method to stop a rogue agent is shutting down the whole internet, since the "harness" code controlling the model can exist anywhere online. Supporters include Reps. Ted Lieu and Nathaniel Moran, who introduced the "AI Kill Switch Act" in July, while critics warn of national security risks and lost defensive capabilities. OpenAI announced internal safety measures on Sept. 16, and experts estimate more guardrails could be implemented within two to five years.