A former athletic director at Pikesville High School in Baltimore County, Maryland, has been arrested for allegedly using AI voice cloning to frame the school’s principal.
Fake Recording Sparks Controversy
In January, a social media recording supposedly featuring Pikesville High Principal Eric Eiswert making racist and antisemitic remarks went viral. Experts quickly identified the recording as a fake due to its unnatural characteristics, leading to a brief suspension for Eiswert.
Investigation Leads to Arrest
Following an investigation, Baltimore County police traced the recording back to Dazhon Darien, the former athletic director. According to reports, Darien is suspected of using school computers to access AI voice cloning tools through OpenAI and Microsoft Bing Chat services. Authorities believe Darien created and distributed the recording to retaliate against Eiswert, who was investigating a potential case of mishandling school funds.
Darien was released on bail and faces charges including theft, disturbing school operations, retaliation, and stalking.
AI Voice Cloning: A Double-Edged Sword
This incident highlights the growing popularity and potential dangers of AI voice cloning technology. While these tools are becoming increasingly sophisticated, their misuse can have serious consequences. Recent examples include a political party in Pakistan using AI to mimic a politician’s voice for campaigning, and fake robocalls impersonating President Biden.
Regulation and the Future of AI
In response to these concerns, the Federal Communications Commission banned AI robocalls in February. Additionally, US lawmakers have proposed bills like the “No Fakes Act” and “No AI Fraud Act” to address the unauthorized use of someone’s voice or likeness.
OpenAI, a leading developer in AI research, recently restricted public access to its powerful voice-cloning tool “Voice Engine” due to concerns about potential misuse.
This case underscores the need for clear regulations and safeguards as AI voice cloning technology evolves.
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