Amid a key move to regulate AI (AI), the Spanish government on Tuesday approved a bill that required companies to properly label AI-generated content, imposing severe penalties for non-compliance. The measure is intended to combat the surge in deepfakes. This is a high and realistic but synthetic media that can be used to spread misinformation.
According to Reuters, the law follows guidelines from the European Union’s AI law, placing strict transparency requirements on AI systems that are considered high risk. Digital Change Minister Oscar Lopez highlighted the dual nature of AI and noted that it could be beneficial, but it could spread disinformation and undermine democratic institutions.
Spain was one of the first EU countries to implement these strict regulations, setting it apart from the US, where AI surveillance is primarily decentralized and relying on voluntary compliance. According to Reuters, Lopez stressed that Deepfark technology poses risks for everyone and highlights the need for the bill.
The proposed law classifies AI-generated content as not labeling it as a “serious crime.” This will be punished by a fine of up to 35 million euros ($38.2 million) or 7% of the company’s global annual revenue. These provisions reflect growing global concerns about the ethical and social impacts of AI progress. This is especially true because Openai’s ChatGpt showed human-like interaction and automation potential in the second half of 2022.
Read more: Spain creates AI regulators to implement AI laws
Beyond mandatory labeling, the bill also prohibits practices such as using subliminal AI-generating stimuli to manipulate vulnerable individuals. Lopez provided examples such as chatbots that promote gambling for addicts, and AI-driven toys that force children into dangerous activities. Additionally, the law prohibits AI-based biometric classification systems. This assesses individuals based on their individual’s behavior or personal characteristics to determine access to benefits and assess potential crimes.
Despite these limitations, certain AI applications are still acceptable. Authorities will maintain their ability to adopt real-time biometric surveillance in public spaces for national security purposes, enabling law enforcement to leverage AI when needed.
On each Reuters, surveillance and enforcement will be assigned to the newly established AI regulator AESIA. However, cases involving data privacy, crime, election, financial assessment, insurance, or capital markets will be handled by their respective regulatory bodies.
Spain’s positive attitude towards AI governance underscores the country’s commitment to mitigate the risks posed by emerging technologies.
Source: Reuters
