YouTube has updated its privacy policy to allow individuals to request the removal of AI-generated media that replicates their image or voice. Introduced in June, this policy extends existing privacy rules to cover AI-generated content.
Under the revamped policy, people can seek the removal of AI-generated media that misuses their likeness. These removal requests need to be filed by the individuals themselves, with certain exceptions for minors, deceased persons, and those unable to access a computer. Not all requests guarantee the content’s removal; each complaint undergoes a review process based on multiple factors such as whether the synthetic nature of the content is clearly marked, if the person can be distinctly identified, or if the media falls under the categories of parody or satire.
Factors Influencing Content Removal
YouTube evaluates the nature of the AI-generated content, especially if it involves public figures or depicts activities that could influence public opinion, like criminal behavior or political endorsements. This consideration is critical during election periods. The platform aims to protect privacy while also respecting freedom of expression and the public’s right to information.
When a complaint is filed, content creators have a 48-hour window to address the issue before YouTube intervenes. If the content is not removed within that timeframe, YouTube will conduct a review. If a video is taken down, all associated personal data, such as titles and tags, are also deleted. Making a video private does not comply with the removal requirements, as it could be made public later.
Tools and Features for AI Content
In March, YouTube added an option in Creator Studio for creators to indicate whether their content includes altered or synthetic media. More recently, the company has been testing a feature allowing users to add crowdsourced notes to videos, providing context about whether the content is parody or potentially misleading.
While YouTube encourages the use of AI tools, it mandates that AI-generated content must follow Community Guidelines. The platform has introduced various AI functionalities, such as a comments summarizer and a conversational video recommendation tool. However, merely labeling content as AI-generated does not exempt it from removal if it breaches YouTube’s guidelines. YouTube is also reportedly negotiating with major record labels to have access to their music catalogs for AI purposes.
YouTube specifies that privacy complaints concerning AI-generated content do not automatically penalize content creators. These issues are separate from Community Guidelines violations, and receiving a privacy complaint does not lead to an instant strike against the creator’s account.
Last Updated on November 7, 2024 3:43 pm CET
