Title: Platforms’ AI Policy Updates in 2024: The Role of Labeling as a Silver Bullet
By: Raquel Miguel, Senior Researcher, EU DisinfoLab
Introduction:
In the digital age, the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has brought with it new challenges, particularly in the realm of misinformation and disinformation. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly sophisticated, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), and TikTok have been under growing pressure to develop effective strategies for moderating such content. This article examines the AI policy updates of these platforms in 2024, with a focus on the role of labeling as a key tool in addressing the misinformation crisis.
Background:
In September 2023, EU DisinfoLab published a factsheet detailing the challenges faced by the aforementioned platforms in moderating AI-manipulated and AI-generated content. The rapid development of AI technology and the rise of misinformation during the previous year’s elections prompted these platforms to announce new measures and policy changes in 2024.
Key Developments in 2024:
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Combating election-related deepfakes:
In February 2024, the five platforms committed to combating AI misinformation during the election cycle. They signed a voluntary pledge to adopt a common framework for fighting election-related deepfakes intended to mislead voters. -
Joining the C2PA coalition:
TikTok and Google joined the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), which includes Meta and X. The C2PA provides an open technical standard for labeling and tracing the origin of different media types, which is crucial for identifying and combating misinformation. -
YouTube’s new tool and “honour-based” request:
On March 18, 2024, YouTube announced the introduction of a new tool in Google’s Creator Studio requiring creators to disclose when realistic content is made with altered or synthetic media, including generative AI. The platform relies on an “honour system” based on the goodwill of content creators, but also mentions an unclear possibility to add an AI disclosure to videos even if the uploader hasn’t done so themselves.
The Role of Labeling as a Silver Bullet:
Labeling has emerged as a key tool for addressing the misinformation crisis. By providing clear information about the origin and authenticity of AI-generated content, labeling can help users make more informed decisions about the information they consume. The platforms’ recent policy updates demonstrate a growing recognition of the importance of labeling in combating misinformation.
Conclusion:
The rapid advancement of AI technology has presented new challenges for platforms in moderating misinformation and disinformation. The labeling of AI-generated content has emerged as a crucial tool for addressing these challenges. As platforms continue to develop and refine their AI policies, the focus on labeling is likely to remain a key aspect of their efforts to combat misinformation.
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