The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has taken a significant step in the ongoing battle against robocalls by officially declaring AI-generated voices as “artificial” and therefore illegal when used in automated calling scams. This new rule, while not entirely novel, reinforces the prohibition of artificial and pre-recorded messages under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act.
Key Takeaway
The FCC has officially declared AI-voiced robocalls as illegal, reinforcing consumer protection measures and aiming to deter deceptive practices in automated calling scams.
Examining the Legality of AI-Cloned Voice Calls
For months, the FCC has been deliberating on whether AI-generated voice calls should be outlawed. The recent high-profile case of a fake President Biden calling New Hampshire citizens and the subsequent efforts by Attorneys General and the FCC to address such deceptive operations have underscored the need for clarity on this matter.
Previously, the legality of using AI voice clones in the context of automated calls was ambiguous. However, the recent ruling establishes that AI-generated fake voices in calls are now explicitly prohibited, aiming to deter negative uses of AI and ensure consumer protection under the TCPA.
Protecting Consumers from Harmful AI-Generated Calls
The FCC’s declaratory ruling emphasizes the potential harm caused by voice cloning and other uses of AI in calls, highlighting the unique risks they pose to consumers. By requiring consent for such calls, consumers are empowered to avoid or approach such calls with caution, knowing that they have the right not to receive them.
