YouTube Expands Privacy Policy to Allow Removal of AI-Generated Deepfakes
As AI technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, social media platforms are grappling with how to moderate simulated or synthetic content that could infringe on users' privacy. In a recent policy update, YouTube now enables individuals to directly request takedown of videos featuring AI-generated deepfakes that simulate their likeness without consent.
YouTube's privacy guidelines have been expanded to include computer-generated deepfakes replicating a person's face or voice. Users can now submit privacy complaints under YouTube's existing process if they come across AI content portraying them in a simulated manner. While content removal is not guaranteed, the site will assess factors like disclosure of the deepfake and whether it uniquely identifies the complainant.
The policy aims to give affected users more direct agency over how their digital identity is represented on the platform. YouTube stresses that content removal means fully deleting the video from the site as well as removing any mention of the individual from the title, description or tags. Creators are advised privacy violations differ from Community Guideline strikes, so a complaint will not automatically penalize the uploader.
Some concerns remain around AI generated deepfakes' potential for malicious impersonation or manipulating public opinion. As tech continues progressing, social platforms must thoughtfully balance open discussion with protecting users from harms like involuntary impersonation. YouTube's updated policy offers a privacy-centered approach for addressing the growing challenges of simulated media online.