US: Over 12,000 parents have joined forces to petition TikTok, urging the platform to enhance the clarity of labels for AI-generated influencers who closely resemble real people. Expressing worries about the potential impact on children and teenagers, parents seek to address concerns regarding unrealistic beauty standards and body dysmorphia attributed to AI influencers showcasing perfected faces and bodies.US: Parents together advocacy spurs petitionNonprofit organization ParentsTogether, dedicated to promoting online safety for children, sponsors the online petition. The petition, directed at TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew, aims to draw attention to the need for improved transparency in differentiating between real and AI-generated content.US: Rise of virtual influencers sparks concernWhile virtual influencers have been present for some time, the rapid growth of generative AI technology has exacerbated the challenge of distinguishing between genuine and artificial content. Parents argue that the surge in realistic AI-generated content, particularly on platforms like TikTok, requires a more robust system of labelling.US: TikToks existing measures deemed insufficientTikTok implemented measures early last year mandating creators to label realistic AI-generated content. However, ParentsTogether contends that these measures are inadequate. According to campaign director Shelby Knox, unlabeled videos persist, and users may remain unaware that they are engaging with AI-generated content unless they actively visit the creators profile.US: Responsibility of platforms to Ensure transparencyKnox emphasizes that platforms like TikTok, which profit from user-generated content, bear the responsibility of ensuring transparent labelling. Many virtual influencers, while mentioning their virtual status in bios, do not explicitly label their content or persona as AI-generated, leading to potential misunderstandings.US: TikToks response, content policiesIn response, a TikTok spokesperson noted that three flagged accounts were removed, underscoring the platforms commitment to addressing concerns. The spokesperson also highlighted TikToks policy against content promoting disordered eating or dangerous weight loss behaviors.US: AI transparency gains prominenceIssues surrounding AI transparency are not new but have gained prominence recently. ParentsTogether began raising awareness of the issue a few months ago, noting an increased reliance on social media by children during periods away from school.US: Concerns extend to YouTubeWhile the petition primarily targets TikTok, Knox suggests a broader exploration of the issue on platforms like YouTube, considering their popularity among children. YouTube has outlined its policies against content glorifying eating disorders and its commitment to supporting the well-being of young users.US: Broader context of parental concernsKnox contextualizes these concerns within the broader challenges parents face in navigating their childrens engagement with social media. The overwhelming nature of social medias impact on young people prompts parents to advocate for change and increased regulation in the tech industry.
