- EU says it could assert trust and authenticity by removing AI-generated content
- The bloc is also drafting a code of best practices to protect citizens.
- Blocking AI completely may not be the best solution, though
The European Union is reportedly considering banning AI-generated images and videos – also known as deepfakes – in official communications.
According to the new Policy reporting, with current geopolitical tensions rising, elections running their course and further public announcements, it is believed that the focus would be on protecting trust in government messaging.
It is unclear whether the rule would ban AI-generated content that impersonates official people or locations, or whether it would apply to all images and videos in political communications.
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EU considers banning AI-related deepfakes
By now, politicians and policymakers are already expressing concerns about the impact of AI on democracy, with many fearing that fake content will undermine authentic news.
However, a blanket ban may not be truly effective. Although the total ban on deepfakes suggests that all EU communications are legitimate, it does not eliminate deepfakes appearing on third-party platforms (especially social media). An additional seal of approval to verify the authenticity of any EU communications could also help on this front – but this is not included in the current proposals.
Some are also calling for AI-generated content to be labeled more clearly, as policymakers see the technology as a growing threat of disinformation, particularly in global politics.
Furthermore, Europe is also seeking to control harmful uses of generative AI. The bloc’s AI Office has already started drafting a code of best practice, which independent experts will continue to rely on.
As for the proposed ban, the rules are still being developed and will need approval before becoming law.
However, some experts have criticized Europe for being so harsh in the rules it has set that it could risk falling behind other nations. “Responsible drinking beats abstinence,” wrote OECD advisor Walter Pasquarelli (via Policy).
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