AI voice cloning sparks concerns for public figures

Prominent public figures, including Sir David Attenborough and Scarlett Johansson, have expressed their growing unease over AI-generated voice cloning. American websites are increasingly using advanced AI technology to clone the voices of well-known personalities, stirring up public debate over identity and privacy rights.

Sir David Attenborough said he was deeply concerned upon discovering that partisan news outlets in the United States have been replicating his voice without permission. These AI-generated imitations have been used to present news reports on hot-button issues such as the electoral efforts of Donald Trump and conflict in Ukraine. The Intellectualist, a website at the centre of the controversy, has been noted for publishing videos on YouTube that impersonate Attenborough’s voice.

Speaking to the BBC, Sir David described this technological infringement as akin to “identity theft”. He emphasised the disconnect between the truth he has meticulously cultivated across his career and the sentiments misattributed to him through such cloning practices. “I am profoundly disturbed,” Attenborough said.

Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson also confronted a similar issue when an AI-generated entity named Sky emerged on ChatGPT, bearing an uncanny resemblance to her voice. Despite not granting permission to any AI company, Johansson found herself grappling with an unexpectedly personal encounter with this technology.

Dr Jennifer Williams, an expert in electronics and computer science at Southampton University, said preventative measures lag behind the accelerating capabilities of AI, especially concerning the safeguarding of personal identities. She voiced specific worries about how these advancements could be exploited in fraudulent activities, such as scammers mimicking financial institutions during telephone interactions.

The implications for public figures are significant, as Dr Williams elaborated on the potential reputational risks. “Sir David is renowned worldwide,” she explained, noting the jeopardy posed to his legacy by unauthorised AI usage. The combination of technological prowess and ethical impunity could irreversibly impact both personal and professional domains, she suggested.

Attempts to curb the unauthorised use of AI voice cloning have seen limited success. While some public figures, like Johansson, have sought to protect their vocal likeness, the absence of rigorous controls or legislative frameworks leaves the door open for further exploitation.

As the technology becomes more ingrained and accessible, the publishing industry finds itself on the frontline of an emerging debate about AI’s role and reach in content creation. Professionals in this sector are keenly observing the developments, recognising both the potential and pitfalls such advancements may hold for news dissemination and subscriber engagement strategies.

The Intellectualist, identified as utilising Sir David’s voice, was unavailable for comment.

Source: Noah Wire Services