Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly prevalent in the lives of children, but it can sometimes amplify the harmful content they encounter online, warns the media regulator Coimisiún na Meán. Speaking before the Children’s Committee, the online safety commissioner Niamh Hodnett highlights that AI was not originally designed with children in mind, nor does it prioritize safety. While technologies such as generative AI, chatbots, and interactive games can assist in children’s learning and play, they also pose risks.
One of the major concerns raised by Coimisiún na Meán is the issue of children placing too much trust in AI systems. These systems can sometimes provide incorrect or misleading information, exposing children to age-inappropriate content. Additionally, the manipulation of imagery through deepfakes and the creation of AI-generated child sex abuse material are emerging threats.
The Oireachtas Children’s Committee recently discussed Ireland’s lack of sufficient measures to protect children from the dangers of AI. While the country has strong regulators like the Data Protection Commissioner and Coimisiún na Meán, greater enforcement is needed to combat the negative practices of tech giants. Coimisiún na Meán, responsible for regulating platforms like Meta and X (formerly Twitter) in the EU, has been granted powers under the EU Digital Services Act to hold these platforms accountable and protect people, especially children, online.
To address these concerns, Coimisiún na Meán has included measures around AI in its draft Online Safety Code, aimed at safeguarding children from harmful content. The code emphasizes the need for AI systems to undergo safety impact assessments and for platforms to implement safety measures to minimize harm caused. Additionally, age verification techniques supported by AI could enhance child protection efforts.
While AI can assist in content moderation, it is crucial to address potential inaccuracies and biases in decision-making. The ultimate goal should be to place children at the forefront of AI design, ensuring their safety and well-being. Coimisiún na Meán reiterates its commitment to using its regulatory functions to serve children effectively.
In conclusion, as AI becomes more intertwined with children’s lives, it is imperative to strike a balance between its benefits and potential risks. By implementing robust safety measures, addressing biases, and actively involving children in the design process, we can create an online environment that prioritizes their well-being and protects them from harmful content.
FAQ:
1. Why is the media regulator Coimisiún na Meán concerned about AI and children?
Coimisiún na Meán is concerned because while AI technologies can assist in children’s learning and play, they can also amplify harmful content and expose children to age-inappropriate material. AI was not originally designed with children in mind, and safety is not always a priority.
2. What are the risks associated with children placing too much trust in AI systems?
One of the major concerns is that AI systems can sometimes provide incorrect or misleading information, leading children to access inappropriate content. Deepfakes and the creation of AI-generated child sex abuse material are also emerging threats.
3. What measures have been discussed by the Oireachtas Children’s Committee in Ireland?
The Oireachtas Children’s Committee has discussed the lack of sufficient measures to protect children from the dangers of AI. While Ireland has strong regulators like the Data Protection Commissioner and Coimisiún na Meán, greater enforcement is needed to combat negative practices of tech giants.
4. What powers has Coimisiún na Meán been granted under the EU Digital Services Act?
Coimisiún na Meán has been granted powers under the EU Digital Services Act to hold platforms like Meta and X (formerly Twitter) accountable and protect people, especially children, online.
5. What measures has Coimisiún na Meán included in its Online Safety Code?
Coimisiún na Meán has included measures in its draft Online Safety Code that emphasize the need for AI systems to undergo safety impact assessments. It also calls for platforms to implement safety measures to minimize harm caused. Additionally, age verification techniques supported by AI could enhance child protection efforts.
6. What should be the goal in AI design when it comes to children?
The ultimate goal should be to design AI systems that prioritize the safety and well-being of children. It is crucial to address potential inaccuracies and biases in decision-making and actively involve children in the design process.
7. What is Coimisiún na Meán’s commitment in using its regulatory functions?
Coimisiún na Meán reiterates its commitment to using its regulatory functions to effectively serve children and ensure their safety in the online environment.
Definitions:
– AI (Artificial Intelligence): The simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans.
– Deepfakes: Synthetic media in which a person’s face or voice is manipulated to create deceivingly realistic videos or audios.
– Age verification: Techniques and processes used to confirm the age of an individual, usually for accessing age-restricted content or services.
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Coimisiún na Meán
The source of the article is from the blog cheap-sound.com