Everything has pros and cons to it, including the digital age that we live in right now. On one hand, the internet’s accessibility makes information easier to attain. However, on the other hand, fake news has been widespread to the point that it is being used as a technique to spread misinformation maliciously, and deepfakes just further raise concerns. To curb this, Denmark has proposed a law that grants a person copyright to their own face, voice, and likeness.
Countering a web of deceit
In the past few years, prominent figures have become victims of deepfakes. The Danish government’s newly proposed bill has been seen as a concrete move that can counter the consequences of maliciously using artificial intelligence (AI) for ill intent. Danish culture minister, Jakob Engel-Schmidt, has spoken with The Guardian and expressed his disdain for the idea that “human beings can be run through the digital copy machine and be misused for all sorts of purposes.”
With Denmark’s copyright law, every person — including public figures such as celebrities, influencers — will have the right to demand the takedown of AI content that uses their likeness. The person can also ask platforms to ban such content. However, the government clarified that parodies and satirical content will remain protected under the proposed law, preserving artistic freedom.
More countries to follow suit
While it might seem new, Denmark isn’t the only country with this kind of law. In fact, there have been a few US states since 2019 that have passed laws to fight harmful deepfakes. These rules cover not just AI-made content, but any fake videos or audio designed to mislead people or cause harm by using someone’s likeness without their permission. Other countries also aim to follow the trend. While using AI does have its advantages, we hope that this kind of law can prevent its misuse.
Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Mark Farías.
Sources: Andrea Willige (World Economic Forum) / , , (CBS News) / Miranda Bryant (The Guardian) / The National Conference of State Legislatures / Anna Felicia Bajo (GMA News Online)
