The US Copyright Office has issued a stark warning: current laws are not enough to protect individuals from the harmful effects of AI-generated deepfakes. In a new report, the office has recommended the creation of new federal legislation to address this growing threat.
The report highlights the speed, precision, and scale at which AI can create highly realistic digital replicas. These replicas can be used for malicious purposes, such as blackmail, bullying, defamation, and even pornography.
The Copyright Office’s assessment reveals several shortcomings in existing laws. State-level protections vary widely, and federal laws are too narrowly focused to address the full extent of the harm caused by deepfakes.
To address these issues, the report recommends several measures:
The timing of this report is significant. In recent weeks, the US Senate has introduced several bills aimed at combating deepfakes. The DEFIANCE Act provides recourse for victims of sexual deepfakes, while the NO FAKES Act allows individuals to sue for damages for the unauthorized use of their voice or likeness.
The Copyright Office’s investigation into AI is ongoing. The agency is exploring a wide range of issues related to the use of AI in art and communication. The findings of this investigation will be crucial in shaping future legislation and policy.