Johansson, who is Jewish, expressed her concerns in a statement, emphasizing the broader dangers of AI-fueled hate speech. She stated, “I am a Jewish woman who has no tolerance for antisemitism or hate speech of any kind. But I also firmly believe that the potential for hate speech multiplied by AI is a far greater threat than any one person who takes accountability for … .” She urged the U.S. government to prioritize legislation limiting AI use, highlighting that it is a bipartisan issue affecting the immediate future of humanity.
This incident is not Johansson’s first encounter with unauthorized AI representations. In 2023, she threatened legal action against a company for using her AI-generated likeness without permission in an advertisement. The recent video’s circulation has intensified calls for clearer regulations to protect individuals from the misuse of AI technology.
The situation underscores the pressing need for comprehensive policies addressing the ethical use of AI, particularly concerning the replication of individuals’ likenesses without consent. As AI technology continues to advance, Johansson’s appeal highlights the importance of establishing safeguards to prevent its potential misuse.
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