Deepfakes Cause Concern Ahead of Election
As the November presidential election approaches, deepfakes, which manipulate audio and video using artificial intelligence, are raising concerns. These AI-generated messages have targeted elections at various levels, prompting states and Congress to consider regulations.
State Measures Focus on Transparency
Several states, including New Hampshire, Wisconsin, Florida, and Arizona, are considering measures to add transparency to deepfake political ads and calls. These bills typically require disclaimers or prohibit deepfakes within a certain time frame before an election.
Congressional Proposals Target Deepfake Content
Congress is considering more stringent measures, including bills that would prohibit the circulation of deepfakes targeting candidates for federal office. Other proposals aim to remove legal protections for online platforms that post deepfake content, potentially forcing their removal.
Challenges in Detecting and Preventing Deepfakes
Technology can help identify deepfakes, but ensuring compliance is a challenge. Bad actors may simply ignore regulations, as seen in the case of a robocall with a Biden voice that violated existing laws.
States Call for Federal Involvement
States, such as New Hampshire, acknowledge that confronting deepfake challenges requires a national approach. They believe federal involvement is crucial for uniformity and to effectively address the issue. With deepfakes likely to be a persistent problem, both states and Congress are taking steps to mitigate their potential impact on election integrity.
