On October 9, Axios revealed that top executives from leading AI firms, including Anthropic and OpenAI, are engaging in private simulations of various scenarios. This proactive measure is aimed at preparing for potential large-scale public dissent and political repercussions that could arise from catastrophic AI-related events. These leaders foresee that significant accidents, particularly cyberattacks, have the potential to disrupt essential services such as financial systems, internet connectivity, and even the provision of power and water.

Should an unsafe AI system cause substantial real-world harm for the first time, it could further fuel public skepticism and opposition towards the technology and its proponents. In such a scenario, notable figures like Anthropic's CEO Dario Amodei, OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman, and former U.S. President Donald Trump—who has faced criticism for his hesitancy to bolster AI regulations—could all find themselves at the center of public blame.

Several insiders within the AI industry express the belief that major accidents may be inevitable. In response, an OpenAI spokesperson confirmed that the company regularly conducts emergency preparedness exercises. These drills enable teams to deliberate on and simulate a variety of potential scenarios, thereby enhancing their readiness to tackle a wide range of conceivable situations.