Unanimity rules out robocalls made with AI voice cloning tools under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991, a law that curbs spam calls using artificial, pre-recorded voice messages. (Photo: 123RF)
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Thursday banned robocalls featuring artificial intelligence (AI) generated voices.
This decision sends a clear message that using technology to deceive people and mislead voters will not be tolerated.
Unanimity rules out robocalls made with AI voice cloning tools under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991, a law that curbs spam calls using artificial, pre-recorded voice messages.
The announcement comes as New Hampshire officials advance an investigation into AI-generated robocalls that imitated President Joe Biden's voice to discourage people from voting in the state's first primary last month.
Effective immediately, the rule authorizes the FCC to fine companies that use AI-generated voices in their calls or block service providers that transmit them.
That opens the door for call recipients to file lawsuits and gives the state attorney general a new mechanism to crack down on violators, according to the FCC.
“Malicious actors are using AI-generated voices in unsolicited robocalls to extort money from vulnerable family members, impersonate celebrities, and misinform voters,” FCC Chairman Jessica Rosenworcel said in a statement to reporters. “We are warning the scammers behind these robocalls.”
Ali Swenson, The Associated Press
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