US Investigators Harness AI to Unmask Fake Child Abuse Images Created by Generative AI

US Investigators Turn to AI to Combat Child Abuse Images Made by AI In a groundbreaking effort to combat the proliferation of child abuse images created with generative artificial intelligence (AI), US investigators are leveraging AI technology to detect and distinguish between real and artificially generated content. The Department of Homeland Security's Cyber Crimes Center has awarded a $150,000 contract to San Francisco-based Hive AI for its software, which can identify whether a piece of content was AI-generated. According to the government filing posted on September 19, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children reported a staggering 1,325% increase in incidents involving generative AI in 2024. The sheer volume of digital content circulating online necessitates the use of automated tools to process and analyze data efficiently, the filing reads. "We're seeing an explosion of child sexual abuse material generated by AI," said Kevin Guo, cofounder and CEO of Hive AI. "Our technology can help investigators quickly identify whether a piece of content is real or fake, which is crucial in these cases." The contract with Hive AI marks a significant shift in the use of AI for law enforcement purposes. While AI-generated child abuse images are often indistinguishable from those depicting real victims, the new software aims to bridge this gap. Background and context: Generative AI has enabled the production of child sexual abuse images to skyrocket, posing a significant challenge for investigators. The technology allows users to create realistic and disturbing content with ease, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish between real and fake material. The use of AI in law enforcement is not new, but its application in this specific context raises important questions about the ethics of using technology to combat crime. "We're walking a fine line here," said Guo. "On one hand, we want to use AI to help investigators, but on the other hand, we don't want to inadvertently create more opportunities for predators." Additional perspectives: Experts in the field warn that relying too heavily on AI may not be enough to combat this complex issue. "AI is a tool, not a solution," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a leading expert on child exploitation. "We need to address the root causes of this problem and work towards creating a safer online environment for children." Current status and next developments: The contract with Hive AI marks a significant step forward in the use of AI for law enforcement purposes. As investigators continue to grapple with the complexities of generative AI, it remains to be seen whether this technology will prove effective in combating child abuse images. In related news, the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) has announced plans to launch a new task force focused on addressing the use of AI-generated child abuse material. The task force aims to bring together experts from law enforcement, academia, and industry to develop strategies for combating this growing threat. Sources: Department of Homeland Security's Cyber Crimes Center National Center for Missing and Exploited Children Hive AI International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) *Reporting by Technologyreview.*