FCC Makes Voice Cloning in Robocalls Illegal

In a significant move, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has officially deemed the use of voice-cloning technology in robocalls to be illegal, providing states with an additional means to pursue those responsible for fraudulent calls. The decision, effective immediately, comes in response to the growing prevalence of such calls, which exploit technology capable of replicating the voices of public figures, political candidates, and even family members in an attempt to deceive unsuspecting individuals.

FCC's ban on voice-cloning technology in robocalls

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the misuse of AI-generated voices in unsolicited robocalls for extorting vulnerable individuals, impersonating celebrities, and disseminating misinformation, stating that state attorneys general now have enhanced capabilities to crackdown on such scams and safeguard the public from fraud and deception. The FCC's action follows a recent incident preceding New Hampshire's presidential primary, during which a fraudulent robocall, imitating President Biden, urged voters not to participate in the primary. It is estimated that between 5,000 to 25,000 such calls were made. New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella disclosed that the AI-generated recording, designed to mimic the president, has been traced back to two Texas-based companies, prompting a criminal investigation.

Concerns and response

The dissemination of AI-produced disinformation targeting voters has prompted two U.S. Senators, Amy Klobuchar and Susan Collins, to urge the U.S. Election Assistance Commission to take measures to combat such campaigns. This fraudulent New Hampshire robocall represents the latest in a series of incidents involving AI-generated images, videos, and audio circulating online, particularly as the 2024 campaign cycle gains momentum. FCC's Decisive Move This decisive move by the FCC marks a crucial effort to address the growing menace of AI-generated voice cloning in robocalls, offering hope for enhanced protection against fraudulent and deceptive practices.