Lingo Telecom [1] [2] [3] [4], a US firm [3], has been fined $1 million by the FCC for transmitting AI-generated robocalls impersonating President Joe Biden during the 2024 New Hampshire primary election [1] [4].
Description
The calls [1] [3] [4], directed by political consultant Steve Kramer and performed by magician Paul Carpenter [3], used generative AI voice cloning technology to spread disinformation [3]. Kramer now faces a $6 million fine and 26 criminal charges for his involvement in the calls. As part of the settlement [2], Lingo Telecom will implement a compliance plan and adhere to STIR/SHAKEN caller ID authentication rules to prevent caller ID spoofing and impersonation. The FCC emphasized the importance of transparency when AI is used in communications and recently banned AI-generated voices in robocalls without consent [2]. Additionally, disclosure requirements for political advertisers using generative AI on radio and TV were proposed by the FCC to ensure accountability and prevent misuse of technology. President Biden has called for a ban on AI voice impersonations [1], and the FCC has reiterated that AI robocalls are illegal under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act [1]. Social media platforms have also been dealing with bot networks spreading political propaganda [1], with accounts tied to various countries being removed for such activities [1].
Conclusion
The fines and regulations imposed by the FCC highlight the seriousness of using AI technology for deceptive purposes. The measures taken aim to increase transparency, accountability, and prevent the misuse of AI in communications. Moving forward, stricter regulations and enforcement may be necessary to combat the spread of disinformation through AI-generated content.
References
[1] https://me.pcmag.com/en/ai/25436/fcc-slaps-telecom-firm-with-1m-fine-for-spreading-fake-biden-robocall
[2] https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/21/24225435/lingo-telecom-biden-deepfake-robocall-fcc-fine
[3] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/lingo-telecom-fine-1m-fake-joe/
[4] https://uk.pcmag.com/ai/154003/fcc-slaps-telecom-firm-with-1m-fine-for-spreading-fake-biden-robocall
