The China Cyberspace Authority (CAC) has launched a campaign to combat AI-generated fake news.
The crackdown is focused on news providers such as short-video platforms and popular search listings.
The CAC specifically highlighted manipulative acts such as the use of AI virtual anchors, faking studio scenes, fake news accounts that imitate legitimate ones, and news manipulation to create misleading storylines. These techniques are used to generate what is known as clickbait.
The CAC said it has already taken action against 107,000 fake news accounts and fake anchors and removed 835,000 false information. Internet regulators are urging citizens to report any fake news accounts they encounter online.
In line with China’s AI Media Law, which aims to curb the spread of AI-generated fake news, police recently detained an individual in Gansu Province who used ChatGPT to create fake news.
This individual used ChatGPT to fabricate a news story about a train accident that quickly gained attention on social media platforms. Police have taken action against the individual for spreading false information to increase website traffic.
ChatGPT is not directly available in China, but users can access it using a supported foreign phone number and virtual private network (VPN). However, access to foreign phone numbers and VPNs is restricted in China.
The AI-Generated Media Law, which will take effect from January 10, 2023, will not only target individuals like those detained in Gansu Province, but also “deep synthesis service providers” to prevent fraud, fraud, crime, etc. responsible for preventing the misuse of AI algorithms for illegal activities. dissemination of false information.
Enforcing the law has been a challenge for companies like Tencent, the creators of WeChat, as they need to ensure their AI algorithms are not abused.
Tencent recently introduced what is essentially a “Deepfakes-as-a-Service” product that allows users to create high-definition digital humans for a fee, raising concerns about the potential for such technology to be abused. .
China’s efforts to combat fake news and regulate online communications underline its commitment to maintaining a safe and trustworthy digital environment, but critics have raised concerns over censorship and restrictions on freedom of expression. has been raised.
(Photo by NII on Unsplash)
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