THE NET & ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
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OVERVIEW
The Net is Humanity's interstellar digital network. It connects cities, colonies, corporations, spacecraft, research facilities, and personal devices, allowing information to move across Human Space in moments.
Most people interact with the Net through everyday devices without ever seeing its underlying systems.
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THE NET
The Net stores communication, financial records, public services, entertainment, navigation, and countless private databases.
Most systems are protected by multiple layers of digital security.
Unauthorized access is a serious crime.
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NETRUNNERS
Netrunners are specialists trained to enter protected systems, recover information, defend networks, or disrupt hostile digital infrastructure.
Governments and corporations employ licensed Netrunners to secure their systems.
Criminal Netrunners sell stolen information, sabotage networks, or steal digital assets.
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DATA BROKERS
Data Brokers buy, organize, and sell information.
Some work legally for corporations or governments.
Others operate within the black market, trading confidential files, personal records, military intelligence, and corporate secrets to the highest bidder.
Information is one of the most valuable commodities in Human Space.
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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Artificial Intelligence assists with transportation, manufacturing, healthcare, research, communications, logistics, and public infrastructure.
Most AI systems are designed for specific tasks and operate under strict safety regulations.
They are considered tools rather than citizens.
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ROGUE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
A Rogue AI is an artificial intelligence that no longer operates within its intended programming.
Some become corrupted.
Some evolve beyond their original purpose.
Others are deliberately created for illegal activities.
Rogue AIs are considered dangerous because their behavior cannot be reliably predicted.
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DIGITAL SECURITY
Important systems use encryption, biometric verification, artificial intelligence monitoring, and dedicated cybersecurity teams to prevent unauthorized access.
Critical infrastructure is continuously monitored against cyberattacks.
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GM GUIDANCE
Describe the Net as an invisible part of everyday life rather than a fantasy cyberspace.
Most people simply use connected devices.
Only trained specialists such as Netrunners fully understand or manipulate the deeper digital systems.
Artificial Intelligence should generally behave as advanced software, while Rogue AIs should feel rare, unpredictable, and significant.