We’re hearing more and more about artificial intelligence (AI) these days. Generally, it can be used to assist in various situations. What AI does, essentially, is to enable technical systems to solve problems and achieve specific goals. It allows a machine to display abilities that appear human, including learning, planning, and reasoning.
Not surprisingly, the technology is being used for both legitimate and illegal purposes. In a recent Public Service Announcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation has warned that AI is now being used illegally in a number of ways. Specifically, the FBI points to AI generated content manipulation (known as “deepfakes”) – including photo manipulation – that is forming the basis for a process known as “sextortion.” In a typical scenario, victims will be shown the manipulated pictures and then presented with a ransom demand.
One of the many problems faced by these victims is that if the manipulated photo or content makes its way onto the internet, it is difficult or impossible to undo the act. As a result, a fake (AI-generated) sexually explicit photo of a person could be available for anyone to see.
Another variation involves the use of AI to clone a voice – in some cases the voice of a loved one. Using that voice, scammers will call you posing as a loved one. The voice will sound legitimate and may be used, for example, to launch a scheme in which that loved one is supposedly kidnapped. The scammers then demand money to release the person.
Conduct such as the acts described above is covered under the criminal laws of the United States and the individual states. In Arizona, the scams could lead to prosecution under a variety of statutes, including those dealing with fraud, computer crimes, and extortion, among others.
Law Offices of David A. Black
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Phoenix, AZ 85004
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