The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is stepping up efforts to protect you from the growing threat of AI-generated robocalls. In a new proposal unveiled this week, the FCC aims to ensure that robocallers disclose when using artificial intelligence (AI) during phone calls and text messages. This move is part of the FCC’s ongoing campaign to combat fraudulent activities linked to robocalls, which have increasingly used AI to deceive recipients.
Strengthening consent requirements
Under the new rules, robocallers must inform you upfront if they plan to use AI for future calls and messages. This disclosure should occur when seeking your consent to make robocalls, a requirement that has been in place since the FCC banned AI-generated robocalls without prior permission. The goal is to clearly understand who—or what—you are communicating with and to make an informed decision about whether you want to receive these calls.
The FCC stresses that AI-generated calls pose a heightened risk of fraud and scams, as the technology can create realistic-sounding voices or convincing text messages. By enforcing these new disclosure rules, the FCC hopes to mitigate the potential for AI to be used in harmful ways.
Defining AI-generated calls
The proposed rules would define an “AI-generated call” as any call or text that uses technology to create an artificial or prerecorded voice or a text message generated by computational technology. This includes using machine learning algorithms, predictive models, and large language models capable of processing natural language and producing human-like voice or text content.
The new rules would apply to traditional robocalls and text messages that use AI to generate content. This broad definition covers all forms of communication where AI might be used to interact with you.
To protect vulnerable populations, the FCC is considering an exception for individuals with speech and hearing disabilities. For these individuals, AI-generated voice software can be a crucial tool for communication. The FCC’s proposal includes provisions allowing these calls, provided they do not contain any unsolicited advertisements. Additionally, people receiving these calls would not be charged for them.
The FCC has also asked for public input on whether scammers could exploit this exemption and how the rules could be updated to prevent such abuse. The agency is keen to balance allowing beneficial uses of AI technology while preventing it from being used to deceive or defraud.
What’s next?
The FCC’s proposal is still in the consultation phase, and feedback from the public and stakeholders is being sought. This input will be crucial in shaping the final rules and ensuring they effectively protect consumers without hindering legitimate uses of AI technology.
As AI continues to evolve, the FCC’s initiative represents an essential step in keeping pace with technological advancements while safeguarding your rights and privacy. With these proposed rules, the agency aims to create a more transparent and secure communication landscape where you can trust that the calls and messages you receive are genuine and free from deceit.
