The attorneys general from all 50 states are urging Congress to address the exploitation of children through pornography, specifically involving artificial intelligence (AI). In a letter sent to the leaders of the House and Senate, the prosecutors called for the establishment of an expert commission to study the ways in which AI can be used to exploit children. They also requested the expansion of existing restrictions on child sexual abuse materials to cover AI-generated images.
The top prosecutors express a sense of urgency, stating that the dangers of AI are already impacting the safety of children. South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson spearheaded the effort to gather support from all 50 states and four U.S. territories. Wilson hopes that the bipartisan support expressed in the letter will translate into meaningful action by federal lawmakers.
The issue of AI-related threats has garnered attention in the Senate, where hearings have been held to discuss possible solutions. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman emphasized the importance of government intervention in managing the risks associated with powerful AI systems. Altman suggested the creation of licensing agencies that could regulate and ensure compliance with safety standards.
While sweeping AI regulations have yet to be crafted by Congress, U.S. agencies have promised to crack down on harmful AI products that violate civil rights and consumer protection laws. Wilson also encourages fellow attorneys general to review their own state statutes to identify areas of concern regarding child exploitation.
Wilson highlights some of the dangers posed by AI, including the creation of “deepfake” scenarios and the use of AI to alter the likeness of real children. These scenarios raise concerns about the virtual exploitation of children and the demand it creates for the industry. The tech industry has already taken steps to combat this issue, with platforms such as Meta, OnlyFans, and Pornhub participating in online tools for reporting explicit images and videos.
Wilson acknowledges the disruptive nature of AI and emphasizes the need for law enforcement and child protection efforts to evolve alongside emerging technologies. The fight against child pornography requires ongoing adaptation to keep up with the evolving tactics of those who seek to exploit children.
Perspective: The use of artificial intelligence in generating and distributing child pornography is a concerning and distressing issue. The collaboration between attorneys general from all 50 states sends a strong message to Congress about the urgent need to address this problem. As AI technology continues to advance, it is crucial to strengthen legislation and enforcement measures to protect children from exploitation. Efforts should also be made to increase public awareness and education regarding AI-generated content and its potential risks. It is imperative to prioritize the safety and well-being of children in the face of rapidly evolving technologies.
