US Government Implements Ban on AI-Generated Calls to Protect Consumers from Voice Cloning Scams
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has banned robocalls using artificial intelligence (AI) voices to protect consumers from voice cloning scams.
The unanimous decision Thursday recognizes calls made with AI-generated voices as “artificial” under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, according to the FCC.
“Bad actors use AI-generated voices in unsolicited robocalls to extort vulnerable family members, impersonate celebrities and misinform voters. We are warning the scammers behind these robocalls,” FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement.
“State attorneys general now have new tools to combat these scams and ensure the public is protected from fraud and misinformation,” he added.
This comes as New Hampshire officials continue to investigate AI-generated robocalls that used US President Joe Biden’s voice to prevent people from voting in the state’s first primary last month.
“This technology now has the potential to confuse consumers with false information by mimicking the voices of celebrities, political candidates and close family members,” the agency said.
The regulation, which takes effect immediately, gives the FCC the authority to fine companies that use artificial intelligence voices in their calls or block service providers that transmit them. It also opens the door for call recipients to file lawsuits and gives state prosecutors a new mechanism to crack down on violators, according to the FCC.
The decision, which takes effect immediately, gives the FCC the ability to fine companies that use artificial intelligence voices in their calls or restrict service providers that transmit them.
According to the FCC, it also allows call recipients to file lawsuits and gives state attorneys general a new tool to enforce violations.
