U.S. Senators Cynthia Lummis and Ted Cruz have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at combating explicit imagery online. The Tools to Address Known Exploitation by Immobilizing Technological Deepfakes on Websites and Networks Act targets non-consensual intimate imagery, including AI-generated deepfake pornography. This bill seeks to criminalize the publication of such content and mandates social media platforms to implement processes for promptly removing it when notified by victims.
The legislation addresses the growing issue of non-consensual intimate image abuse, commonly referred to as “revenge pornography.” By making the publication of these images a federal crime, the bill aims to protect victims from further trauma and hold perpetrators accountable. The inclusion of AI-generated content in the bill highlights the increasing sophistication of digital exploitation and the need for legal frameworks to keep pace with technological advancements.
Senator Lummis emphasized the importance of leveraging AI responsibly, acknowledging its potential benefits while recognizing the risks of misuse. The proposed legislation reflects a commitment to ensuring that technology serves to improve lives without being exploited for harmful purposes. It introduces a notice and takedown process for websites, which will help victims by preventing the ongoing spread of abusive content.
Overall, the bill underscores the urgent need for robust measures to address the rise of deepfake pornography and similar forms of digital exploitation. By establishing clear legal obligations for social media platforms and criminalizing the dissemination of non-consensual imagery, the legislation aims to enhance protection for individuals affected by these severe breaches of privacy.
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