FCC Takes Action Against AI-Generated Robocalls

In a significant move to tackle the growing menace of robocalls with AI-generated voices, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has announced a ruling making such calls illegal. This decision comes in the wake of reports about New Hampshire voters receiving calls from a digitally generated voice impersonating President Biden.

Chairwoman's emphasis on aI-generated voice misuse

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized that the use of AI-generated voices in unsolicited robocalls is being exploited by "bad actors" for purposes like extorting vulnerable individuals, imitating celebrities, and misleading voters.

The ruling, adopted unanimously on Feb. 2, provides state attorneys general with "new tools" to combat those utilizing voice-cloning technology in robocall scams.

Illegal Use of AI in Robocalls

While the use of AI-generated voices in robocall scams was previously deemed illegal, the recent ruling explicitly states that employing AI to generate voices for robocalls is unlawful.

Impact of advanced aI voice technology

Rosenworcel noted that AI-generated voice technology has advanced to the extent of producing remarkably realistic voices, making it easier and more cost-effective to perpetrate phone scams.

Investigation and enforcement actions

Following the use of AI-generated voices in robocall scams targeting New Hampshire voters, New Hampshire Attorney General John Formella initiated a criminal investigation into a Texas-based company suspected of being responsible for the thousands of calls to voters in the state. He also issued a stern warning to potential wrongdoers considering the use of such technology to interfere with elections – vowing to work with partners nationwide to locate and take enforcement action against them.

Formella made it clear that the consequences for such actions would be severe.