United States Senators proposed a NO FAKES act aimed to protect against fraud, abuse and the manipulation of digital and creative assets, potentially providing Gen Z with significant advantages in the AI era.
If passed, this legislation could be particularly beneficial for some young content creators and online influencers who see their images and likenesses used without consent.
The NO FAKES Act would hold individuals or companies liable for damages if found guilty of producing, hosting, or sharing a deep fake (AI-generated image) of an individual performing in an audiovisual or sound recording that was not previously approved by the individual.
The Senate’s recent consideration of the NO FAKES Act also targets the creation of sexually explicit deepfakes is a crucial step in this direction. It would empower victims of non-consensual AI-generated content to seek damages from the perpetrators, providing a legal framework to combat such violations.
This move follows troubling incidents involving AI-generated explicit images of students and public figures like Taylor Swift, showcasing the urgent need for robust protections.
In an age where AI can replicate and manipulate content, Gen Z creators could feel more secure knowing that their original work can be safeguarded if the NO FAKES Act is passed.
This protection would be crucial for those constantly producing digital art, music, videos, and other forms of creative expression, as it would help prevent unauthorized use and potential exploitation of their intellectual property.
Moreover, the act could be especially advantageous for celebrities and macro-influencers. These individuals often face the risk of their images and likenesses being used inappropriately or maliciously online. The new legislation would ensure that these creators could take legal action against those who misuse their digital presence, thus maintaining control over their personal brand and reputation.
Keeping it gee, the proposed bill and ongoing efforts by tech companies like Microsoft mark a significant step towards potentially protecting Gen Z creators and online influencers. By regulating AI and deepfakes, the U.S. government can aim to foster a safer digital environment where young innovators can thrive without fear of exploitation or fraud. If passed, this legislation could greatly enhance the security and integrity of digital assets, benefiting the next generation of creators.
Miranda Perez (she/her/hers) is a Jersey City, NJ-based journalist who covers the tech industry. Follow her on X and Instagram: @mimithegee.