Thursday, 24 April 2025
26.8 C
Singapore
29.9 C
Thailand
19.5 C
Indonesia
28.8 C
Philippines

Google to label AI-generated images in search results

Google labels AI-generated images in Search, giving users clearer insights and improving transparency in search results to tackle deep fake scams.

As AI-generated images increasingly flood Google’s search results, it has become harder for users like you to find genuine content. In response, Google has announced that it will begin flagging AI-generated and AI-edited images to help you distinguish between real and AI-created content. This update will roll out in the coming months, adding labels to images in Search, Google Lens, and Android’s Circle to Search features.

A new way to identify AI images

Google’s new system will give you more transparency when browsing images online. Using the “About this image” tool, you can see whether AI has generated or altered an image. This feature will give you insights into the image’s origin, making it easier to avoid misleading content. Google will apply this change not only to search results but also to its advertising services. Furthermore, the tech giant is exploring similar measures for YouTube videos, promising more updates later in the year.

The company will rely on metadata provided by the Coalition for Content Provenance and Authenticity (C2PA), a group it joined as a steering committee member earlier this year. The C2PA metadata will track an image’s creation details, including when and where it was generated and what software or equipment was used. This technology aims to give users more control and awareness while browsing.

A growing industry effort

Google is not alone in this effort. Leading tech companies, including Amazon, Microsoft, OpenAI, and Adobe, joined the C2PA. They aim to establish a standard that will help fight misinformation and digital manipulation. However, while many big names are on board, the standard is still in its early stages. Currently, it’s only supported by a few devices, such as some models of Sony and Leica cameras. Notably, some developers of AI-generation tools, such as Black Forrest Labs, have yet to adopt the standard.

The widespread use of AI in generating images has raised concerns about authenticity, particularly in light of recent online scams. AI-generated deepfakes have become a growing problem, with scammers using the technology’s accessibility. In February, a Hong Kong-based financier lost US$25 million to criminals posing as the company’s CFO in a video conference, using AI to fake the CFO’s appearance and voice. A recent study by verification company Sumsub revealed a 245% global increase in deepfake-related scams between 2023 and 2024, with a 303% spike in the U.S. alone.

Tackling online scams

Experts warn that AI technology is lowering the barrier for cybercriminals. “The public accessibility of these services has lowered the barrier of entry for cybercriminals,” said David Fairman, chief information officer and chief security officer of APAC at Netskope. “They no longer need special technological skill sets,” he told CNBC in May. With the rising use of AI in fraud, the need for stronger identification measures is crucial. Google’s new labels aim to tackle this issue head-on, providing you with more security and confidence when browsing images online.

Google’s decision to label AI-generated images is an important step in the fight against misinformation and online scams. It’s also a move that can help protect you from falling victim to deepfakes while offering more clarity in your search results. As AI continues to evolve, these types of protective measures will likely become more common across the web, making the digital world a safer and more transparent place.

Hot this week

OpenAI may be creating a new social media platform with AI-generated images

OpenAI may launch a social platform with ChatGPT-powered image feeds, marking a new step into AI-driven social networking.

Proofpoint launches unified cybersecurity platform to cut costs and tackle multichannel threats

Proofpoint launches Prime Threat Protection, a unified cybersecurity platform tackling human risk and multichannel threats while reducing costs.

Why OpenAI chose Windsurf after Cursor said no to being bought

OpenAI considered buying Cursor but moved on to Windsurf with a US$3B offer after Cursor’s parent company, Anysphere, chose to stay independent.

ASUS introduces the first smart band with fingertip blood pressure and ECG tracking

ASUS launches VivoWatch 6 Aero, the first smart band with fingertip blood pressure and ECG tracking, powered by advanced health AI.

Apple’s iPhone sales drop in China amid growing trade tensions

Apple’s iPhone sales in China fell 9% as local brands grew, and trade tensions created more uncertainty for the smartphone market.

POCO launches entry-level C71 smartphone in Singapore with premium features

POCO launches the budget-friendly C71 smartphone in Singapore, offering premium design, enhanced cameras, and smooth performance at S$109.

NVIDIA uses AI to address climate, wildlife and disaster risks

NVIDIA’s AI tools support climate action, wildlife monitoring, and disaster risk mitigation, with uses spanning sea, land, sky and space.

Netflix raises subscription prices in Singapore again

Netflix again raises subscription prices in Singapore, with new rates for all plans and extra member slots.

GameMax unveils Blade Concept ATX case with bold design and powerful features

GameMax launches the Blade Concept ATX case, which features a striking blade design, RGB lighting, and support for high-end liquid-cooled PC builds.

Related Articles

Popular Categories