This image made from video of a fake video featuring former President Barack Obama shows elements of facial mapping used in new technology that lets anyone make videos of real people appearing to say things they've never said. There is rising concern that U.S. adversaries will use new technology to make authentic-looking videos to influence political campaigns or jeopardize national security.
“This threat is no longer theoretical,” said a statement from Brown. “It is quickly making its malevolent presence known and will likely get much worse. I am especially concerned that deepfake images, audio, and video will be used to target Black and minority voters whose voting rights have historically and consistently been under threat. Combining 21st century technology with old-fashioned voter suppression and misinformation is a dangerous combination.
The legislation would apply to federal, state, and local elections and be enforced by the Federal Trade Commission. Violators would be subject to fines or imprisonment.