Generative AI Sparks Controversy with Wild and Inappropriate Artwork
Generative AI has made it easier for the average person to create artwork and other content. However, it has also led to the creation of controversial and inappropriate material. For example, AI image generators have been used to produce deepfake sexual content, as well as scenes depicting violence or risqué situations involving politicians, historical figures, and beloved fictional characters.
Social Media Platforms Filled with Controversial AI Stickers
Social media platforms are currently flooded with images of stickers allegedly created using Facebook’s AI sticker generator. These stickers depict popular characters engaging in bizarre and inappropriate activities, such as Elmo wielding a knife or Mickey Mouse in a toilet. Even Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been depicted in a scantily-clad manner.
Meta’s Response to the Controversy
When Decrypt reached out to Meta for comment on the AI stickers, a spokesperson pointed to a blog post from the company acknowledging that generative AI systems can produce inaccurate or inappropriate outputs. Meta stated that they are continuously working to improve these features based on user feedback.
Meta’s Investment in Generative AI
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has heavily invested in generative AI tools this year, committing up to $39 billion. They have joined other tech giants like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft in pledging to develop AI responsibly after discussions with the Biden Administration. Meta recently launched various AI-generated tools, including conversational AI assistants featuring celebrity voices like Snoop Dogg and Tom Brady.
The Role of Generative AI in Content Moderation
Meta claims that they are using artificial intelligence to identify harmful content more efficiently by training their language models on their “Community Standards.” They believe that generative AI can help enforce their policies in the future.
Other Controversial AI-Generated Artwork
In addition to the Facebook stickers, other surreal and controversial AI-generated artwork has gained attention. Microsoft’s Bing AI image generator has been used to create images like SpongeBob and Kirby involved in the 9/11 attacks. Twitter users have also utilized Bing AI to produce pop culture riffs, such as anime characters piloting an airliner towards the World Trade Center.
Efforts to Curb Misuse of Generative AI
Companies are taking steps to prevent the misuse of generative AI on their platforms. Some have implemented KYC policies for users, while others have introduced new guardrails and features to prevent the creation of violent, adult, or hateful content. For instance, Midjourney ended its free trial version due to its use in generating deepfakes, and OpenAI released an updated version of its AI-image generator with stricter guidelines.
Canva’s Approach to Trust and Safety
Content creation company Canva has launched its Magic Studio suite of generative AI tools. Canva has implemented guardrails to ensure that the tool does not generate images of popular figures or third-party intellectual property. They prioritize trust and safety by avoiding the creation of content related to politics or medicine without proper authorization.
Hot Take: The Unintended Consequences of Generative AI
Generative AI has revolutionized content creation but has also given rise to unforeseen challenges. The ease of generating art and other media comes with a dark side, as demonstrated by the controversial and inappropriate material produced using AI image generators. While companies like Meta and Canva are taking steps to address the misuse of generative AI, it remains an ongoing battle to ensure responsible and ethical use of this technology.
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