Social platforms are facing a significant challenge in preventing the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. Prosecutors in every state are pushing for action against AI-enabled child sexual abuse material (CSAM) due to concerns that AI technology is creating a new frontier for abuse. Deep fake images, which depict people in false scenarios, can be created more easily than ever before, posing a threat to the physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing of the children involved. While some states have laws against the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes, few legal protections exist for the victims. Major social platforms prohibit this content, but it can still slip through the cracks. European lawmakers are also working towards a solution, but negotiations are ongoing. The urgent need for action becomes increasingly apparent as the risks of AI-generated CSAM continue to grow.

Challenges in preventing dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes

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Introduction

AI deepfakes, particularly those of a sexually exploitative nature, have been on the rise in recent years. These fake videos and images, created using artificial intelligence technology, are able to convincingly depict people in false scenarios. While some deepfakes may be innocuous and used for entertainment purposes, the proliferation of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes poses serious risks and dangers.

In this article, we will explore the challenges faced in preventing the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. We will examine the existing laws and regulations, the inadequacy of legal protections, the efforts made by social platforms, and the limitations of their policies. Additionally, we will delve into a case study involving an app that ran suggestive deepfake ads on major social platforms. Finally, we will discuss international efforts to combat AI deepfakes and the negotiations and challenges associated with them.

Increasing prevalence of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes

Technological advancements have greatly contributed to the increasing prevalence of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. These advancements have made it easier than ever for individuals with malicious intent to create and disseminate deepfake content. Additionally, the accessibility and availability of AI deepfake creation tools have further fueled its proliferation.

Numerous high-profile cases have brought attention to the risks and dangers posed by the widespread dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. The impact on victims and their well-being cannot be overstated. The creation and circulation of sexualized images depicting actual children, even if the children in the source photographs are not physically abused, can severely harm their physical, psychological, and emotional well-being, as well as that of their parents.

Existing laws and regulations

Although there are some existing laws and regulations aimed at addressing AI deepfakes, there are significant gaps when it comes to the prevention and prosecution of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. Some states in the United States, such as New York, California, Virginia, and Georgia, have laws that prohibit the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. Additionally, Texas became the first state in 2019 to ban the use of AI deepfakes to influence political elections.

However, these laws are limited in their scope and effectiveness. Prosecuting AI deepfake creators and distributors can be challenging, as there are often difficulties in proving harm and identifying victims. Moreover, jurisdictional issues and the need for international cooperation complicate the legal process.

Inadequacy of legal protections

The inadequacy of legal protections becomes apparent when it comes to preventing the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. The challenges in prosecuting AI deepfake creators and distributors are exacerbated by the difficulties in proving harm and identifying victims. The realm of AI deepfakes operates across borders, further complicating the jurisdictional issues and the need for international cooperation.

To effectively combat the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes, a comprehensive and coordinated global effort is required. This includes the development of stronger legal frameworks, improved methods of identifying perpetrators, and enhanced international collaboration.

Efforts by social platforms

Social platforms have taken steps to address the issue of AI deepfakes and implement measures to mitigate their dissemination. Many platforms have established policies and guidelines regarding AI deepfake content, explicitly prohibiting its presence on their platforms. These policies are aimed at protecting users from the potential harm caused by sexually exploitative AI deepfakes.

Social platforms have also invested in content moderation and removal mechanisms to detect and take down AI deepfake content. They collaborate with technology and AI experts to develop more effective methods of identifying and removing such content. Additionally, proactive monitoring systems have been implemented to quickly detect and prevent the spread of AI deepfakes.

Limitations of social platform policies

While the efforts made by social platforms are commendable, there are limitations to their policies and measures. Technical challenges exist in detecting AI deepfakes, as the technology used to create them continues to evolve and become more sophisticated. This creates a constant cat-and-mouse game, where platforms must constantly adapt their detection methods.

False positives and the potential for censorship pose additional challenges. The automated systems used by social platforms to detect AI deepfake content may mistakenly flag and remove legitimate content. This can infringe on users’ freedom of speech and expression.

Furthermore, concerns regarding user privacy and surveillance arise when implementing proactive monitoring systems. The need to scan and analyze vast amounts of user data raises valid privacy concerns, as users may feel that their personal information is being monitored and scrutinized without their consent.

Case study: App running suggestive deepfake ads on major social platforms

A recent case study involving an app that ran suggestive deepfake ads on major social platforms highlights the challenges faced in preventing the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes. The app, which claimed to be able to “swap any face” into suggestive videos, ran over 230 ads across Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger.

Upon being notified by NBC News reporter Kat Tenbarge, Meta (formerly known as Facebook) promptly removed the ads. However, this incident highlights the potential for sexually exploitative AI deepfakes to slip through the cracks of social platform policies and measures.

Lessons can be learned from this case study, such as the need for stricter ad approval processes and more thorough monitoring of ad content. It also emphasizes the importance of users and journalists in reporting and bringing attention to the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes.

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International efforts to combat AI deepfakes

Recognizing the global nature of the issue, international efforts are underway to combat AI deepfakes. European lawmakers are working towards the ratification of an AI Code of Conduct, which aims to establish guidelines and rules for the responsible use of AI technology. This Code of Conduct is a collaborative initiative that involves cooperation with other countries to develop comprehensive strategies.

The goals and objectives of international cooperation include sharing best practices, improving technological capabilities, and formulating legal frameworks that address the challenges posed by AI deepfakes. Progress has been made, but negotiations are still ongoing, as diverse perspectives and cultural considerations must be taken into account.

Negotiations and challenges

The negotiations surrounding the development of an AI Code of Conduct are complex and challenging. Reaching a consensus among different countries and stakeholders is a daunting task, as each party brings their unique perspective and priorities to the table.

Technical limitations and ethical dilemmas further complicate the negotiations. Accommodating the evolving nature of AI technology while ensuring the responsible and ethical use of that technology is a delicate balancing act. Decisions made during the negotiation process will have far-reaching implications for the prevention and prosecution of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes.

Ongoing discussions and future steps are essential to address the challenges faced in combating AI deepfakes. Continued collaboration among countries, policymakers, technology experts, and other stakeholders is crucial in developing effective strategies and frameworks to prevent the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes.

In conclusion, preventing the dissemination of sexually exploitative AI deepfakes poses numerous challenges. Existing laws and regulations are inadequate, social platforms face limitations in their policies and measures, and efforts at the international level are still in progress. However, by addressing these challenges collectively and collaboratively, it is possible to mitigate the risks posed by AI deepfakes and protect individuals from the harmful impact of sexually exploitative content.

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Source: https://techcrunch.com/2023/09/05/prosecutors-in-every-state-push-to-combat-ai-child-exploitation/