llms ai-agents code-generation api-security

AI is code – and can't be prompted into being smarter

theregister.com

June 14, 2026

4 min read

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55/100

Summary

AI operates based on code and cannot independently enhance its intelligence through prompting. The limitations of AI's capabilities are rooted in its programming rather than user input.

Key Takeaways

AI systems are fundamentally code and cannot be prompted to exhibit intelligence beyond their programmed capabilities.
AI agents are not inherently trustworthy and should not be given excessive powers or permissions.
The rise of AI-assisted attacks is linked to the interconnected nature of modern applications, making them vulnerable to exploitation.
Existing identity and access models are inadequate for managing non-human identities in the era of agentic AI.

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AI is code – and can't be prompted into being smarter ↗

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Community Sentiment

Mixed

Positives

The discussion highlights the need for robust AI safety measures, emphasizing that protecting AI from human subversion is crucial for responsible deployment.
Recognizing prompt injections as a variant of supply chain attacks illustrates the evolving landscape of AI security threats, prompting developers to rethink their strategies.

Concerns

Concerns about AI being manipulated through prompt injections reflect a significant vulnerability, suggesting that current safeguards may not be sufficient to protect users.
The incident involving embedded malware raises alarms about user trust and the potential for destructive consequences, indicating a critical need for better user awareness and control.