U.S. artificial intelligence company leaders are preparing for a "large-scale AI cyber incident" expected within the next year, conducting simulations involving scenarios such as public unrest and political crises, Axios reported on Monday.

The potential incident could disrupt banks, internet services, or power grids, possibly resulting in public dissatisfaction with AI developers and criticisms over insufficient government regulation.

An OpenAI spokesperson confirmed that the company is carrying out readiness exercises and exploring various possible scenarios.