AI technology has taken a controversial twist as models who contributed their likeness to Synthesia, a leading text-to-video AI firm, are shocked to find their images being used in propaganda videos.
Synthesia, valued at over one billion dollars, specializes in creating studio-quality videos with AI avatars, a service comparable to crafting simple slide decks.
While Synthesia’s clientele includes reputable organizations like Reuters and global heavyweight Ernst & Young, it also counts authoritarian regimes among its users.
This has sparked concern among human models whose faces underpin Synthesia’s AI avatars.
As reported by The Guardian, several models have been startled to see their likenesses used in propaganda videos linked to states like China, Russia, and Venezuela.
A particularly alarming incident involved Mark Torres, a London-based creative director, who was horrified upon discovering his image used in such a clip.
“I’ve been in the industry for years, but this experience left me feeling vulnerable,” he shared, expressing fear over being misidentified as involved in activities he had no knowledge of.
This troubling development gains more significance in light of recent legislative actions.
California has passed legislation making it illegal to use AI-generated replicas of actors’ likenesses or voices without consent.
The issue was also a focal point during last year’s Screen Actors Guild and Writers Guild of America’s strike, leading to new rules governing AI use.
Dan Dewhirst, an actor whose image appeared in Venezuelan propaganda, voiced his frustration over the potential career impacts.
“I was furious upon discovering this misuse, and it severely impacted my mental health,” he revealed.
Despite the controversy, Synthesia insists its contracts articulate the potential uses of their technology and the company’s commitment to enhancing protective measures.
The debate around AI and its misuse in propaganda continues to unfold, raising significant questions about digital ethics and the responsibilities technology companies hold towards contributors and the public.