Google will require disclaimers for AI-generated political ads

Google will soon implement a policy mandating political advertisers to prominently disclose their use of AI in creating their ads, as initially reported by Bloomberg. Starting in November, Google stipulates that advertisers must include a disclosure whenever an election ad features "synthetic content" portraying "realistic-looking people or events."

This encompasses political ads employing AI to make individuals appear as though they are saying or doing things they never actually did. It also covers alterations to actual event footage (or fabrication of a realistic-seeming event) to depict a scene that never transpired.

Google asserts that such ads must feature a disclaimer in a clear and conspicuous location, specifying that this requirement applies to images, videos, and audio content. The labels must state things like "This audio was computer generated" or "This image does not depict real events." Minor adjustments, like enhancing an image, editing the background, or using AI to remove red-eye, will not necessitate a label.

A Google spokesperson, Allie Bodack, states in a statement to The Verge, "Given the growing prevalence of tools that produce synthetic content, we’re expanding our policies a step further to require advertisers to disclose when their election ads include material that’s been digitally altered or generated."

Some political campaigns are already utilizing AI to craft ads. In April, the Republican National Committee released an attack ad featuring AI-generated images targeting President Joe Biden's reelection bid. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis also unveiled an attack ad incorporating AI-generated images of Donald Trump and Anthony Fauci, the former chief medical advisor for the White House.

These fabricated ads have raised concerns among certain lawmakers, including Representative Yvette Clarke (D-NY), who introduced a bill mandating disclosures for political ads containing AI-generated content. The Federal Election Commission is also contemplating restrictions on election ads employing AI.

Signal Introduces Usernames for Encrypted Messaging: A Secure Way to Connect

Signal, the encrypted messaging service, is launching a new feature in the coming weeks: support for usernames. This beta feature allows users to establish unique usernames, enabling connections without divulging phone numbers. source: Signal Blog To create a username, navigate to your settings and select "Profile." Once you've chosen a unique username, generate a QR code or link to share with others. Recipients can connect by entering your username into the chat bar. Usernames can be changed at any time, though previous usernames may be claimed by others. Signal began testing usernames last fall. Unlike social media platforms, Signal usernames do not serve as logins or public handles. They offer a discreet means of communication without revealing personal phone numbers. While a phone number is required to register for Signal, sharing it is optional. Usernames remain private and do not appear on profiles or in chats unless shared explicitly. As Randall Sarafa, Signal'

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AT&T recently confirmed a significant data breach affecting over 7.6 million current customers and 65 million former customers. The leaked information, which dates back to 2019 or earlier, includes personal details like names, addresses, phone numbers, and social security numbers. Fortunately, financial information and call history were not compromised. In response to the breach, AT&T has reset passcodes for affected customers. Passcodes, usually four-digit numbers, serve as an additional layer of security when accessing accounts. However, security experts warn that the encrypted passcodes leaked alongside customer information could be easily deciphered, posing a risk of unauthorized account access. Affected customers are advised to set up free fraud alerts with major credit bureaus and remain vigilant for any suspicious activity related to their accounts. AT&T is proactively reaching out to impacted customers via email or letter to inform them about the breach and the meas

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In a recent ruling, the Supreme Court of Canada affirmed the significance of privacy rights concerning internet addresses. The court declared that police cannot simply obtain a suspect’s IP address without a court order, emphasizing the expectation of privacy that Canadian residents hold for such information. The court's decision stemmed from a case in 2017 involving Calgary police investigating fraudulent online activities at a liquor store. Initially, police demanded IP addresses from a credit card processor, which eventually led to obtaining subscriber information from Telus. This information was pivotal in making arrests and securing convictions in multiple offenses. Despite previous convictions, the accused contested the legality of obtaining IP addresses without proper authorization. The Supreme Court, in a 5-4 decision, asserted that IP addresses carry a reasonable expectation of privacy, necessitating judicial approval before access. The ruling emphasizes that obtaining jud

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