Explicit AI deepfakes of Taylor Swift have fans and lawmakers up in arms

Taylor Swift’s likeness was used in AI-generated deepfake still images and videos depicting explicit sexual activities, which provoked widespread condemnation and calls for increased regulation of generative AI.

Lawmakers, such as Congressman Tom Kean Jr., have introduced bills to regulate AI, including requiring clear labeling of AI-generated content and permitting victims of nonconsensual deepfakes to sue creators and software companies for damages.

The use of generative AI in creating explicit and nonconsensual imagery of public figures has prompted renewed concern over regulating the technology, balancing freedom of expression and speech with preventing malicious use, and protecting individuals’ rights to privacy and control over their image.