An AI 'kill switch' could go as far as shutting down the internet

As lawmakers and industry figures push for rules to slow AI progress, the concept of an “AI kill switch” is gaining traction. In broad terms, it refers to safeguards—software or hardware—that could prevent AI agents from taking unwanted actions, and it has attracted bipartisan bill proposals in the U.S. Congress requiring developers to preserve the ability to suspend or shut down AI products. Anthropic co-founder Jack Clark floated mandatory kill switches in remarks to the BBC on Sept. 14. Experts say a kill switch could range from local shutdowns (even cutting power) to broader scenarios, potentially affecting internet access, while noting that shutting down one system may not stop others.