US Senator Michael Bennet is spearheading a movement towards transparency in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). He has recently addressed major tech giants, including OpenAI and Google, emphasizing the importance of identifying AI-generated content.
A rising concern about misleading content, propelled by AI, has led Senator Bennet to call upon technology companies to highlight AI-produced content clearly. In a missive dated June 29, sent to the top brass of significant AI-focused corporations like OpenAI, Microsoft, Meta, Twitter, and Alphabet, he stressed the necessity of informing users when content has been curated using AI.
According to Bennet, counterfeit images have the potential to disrupt both the economy and the public’s trust, especially when they are designed to influence political sentiment. He pointed out, “The continued creation and distribution of AI-generated content without unmistakable, easily understandable markers present a dangerous risk to public discourse and the sanctity of elections.”
Bennet noted that although a handful of companies have begun labeling AI-created content, their policies overly rely on voluntary adherence. He has requested the tech leaders to address queries about the standards for identifying AI-generated content, implementing these standards, and the penalties for violations by July 31.
Among the recipients, only Twitter has responded to date, albeit with a poop emoji, an unorthodox reply to a senatorial inquiry.
Concerns about unlabeled AI content contributing to misinformation are not unique to the United States. European lawmakers have voiced similar apprehensions. Vera Jourova, Vice President for Values and Transparency at the European Commission, expressed on June 5 that companies using AI tools capable of producing misleading information should attach labels to their content to curb disinformation.
Although there is no encompassing AI law in the US presently, two bipartisan bills aimed at transparency and innovation in AI were proposed by lawmakers on June 8. The first, put forward by Democratic Senator Gary Peters and Republican Senators Mike Braun and James Lankford, demands the government to disclose its AI usage.
The second, proposed by Bennet, Democratic Senator Mark Warner, and Republican Senator Todd Young, proposes the creation of an official Office of Global Competition Analysis.
Earlier, in March 2023, Bennet had shared his concerns about the volatile crypto industry, particularly in light of the Signature Bank’s collapse.
Understanding the implications of AI-generated content is crucial for every internet user in this digital age. AI can create persuasive content that is indistinguishable from human-produced content, making it a potential tool for misinformation campaigns.
While companies develop technologies to better detect AI-generated content, it’s equally important for users to develop a healthy skepticism and critical thinking skills when engaging with online content. Fact-checking, cross-referencing information, and looking for reliable sources are essential practices to ensure the information’s authenticity.
Lastly, it is important to remember that AI is a tool that reflects the intent of those who use it. While it can be used to generate misinformation, it can also be harnessed to create valuable, engaging, and innovative content. It’s up to us as a society to determine how we will use and regulate this powerful technology.