European Commission Grills Tech Giants on Risks of AI in Elections: Deepfakes and Misinformation in the Spotlight
The European Commission has formally questioned major tech companies on their strategies to address the risks posed by generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) that could mislead voters during elections. The commission has set a deadline of April 3 for these companies, including Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, Google Search, Bing, Snapchat, and YouTube, to submit relevant documents and information.
In a formal request for information (RFI), the commission specifically asked for more details on the potential hazards associated with generative AI. The concern arises from the fact that these tech companies allow users to create and disseminate content using this technology. The EU is particularly worried about the measures taken to mitigate the risks to election voters, as the spread of viral deepfakes and manipulation through automated services can significantly influence voters’ perceptions.
Following these information requests, the European Commission holds the power to impose penalties for any errors, inconsistencies, or misrepresentations. This decision aligns with the EU’s recent regulations on e-commerce and online governance, known as the Digital Services Act (DSA). Under the DSA, eight platforms, classified as Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs), are required to assess and manage systemic risks, in addition to adhering to other guidelines.
Moreover, the commission is also investigating election security as it seeks to understand the impact of generative AI on the electoral process. The distribution of illicit content, defense of fundamental rights, gender-based violence, protection of minors, and mental health are other concerns being addressed.
As the use of AI continues to expand across various sectors, the European Commission has been actively studying its impact on voters. A recent study highlighted the ability of AI to spread misinformation among voters. The EU is currently in the final stages of formulating election security regulations, with the deadline set for March 27. The commission has been soliciting feedback through public consultations on these regulations. The recent RFI to tech giants is seen as a critical step towards developing the EU’s election security policy, which will help tackle ongoing challenges, including misinformation affecting voters.
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