In recent years, interest in AI-powered voice cloning technology has grown exponentially as services have improved in sounding more human. However, cases of improper use of apps and software for voice cloning have also been on the rise. One such case took place in Baltimore County where a physical education teacher and former athletic director was arrested for using an AI voice cloning service to frame the school principal.
In January, a recording circulated on social media purportedly featuring Pikesville High School Principal Eric Eiswert making racist and anti-Semitic comments. The recording had a flat tone, clean background sounds, and lacked coherent breathing sounds or pauses, leading to Eiswert’s brief suspension. However, it was later discovered that the recording was actually a fake audio clip created using an AI voice cloning service.
Baltimore County police tracked down the recording to Dazhon Darien, a former athletic director at the school. Darien allegedly used the school’s computers to access OpenAI tools and Microsoft Bing Chat services to create the fake audio clip. He was linked to the release of the audio through an email address and associated recovery phone number. Darien was arrested at the airport and is facing charges including theft, disrupting school operations, retaliation against a witness, and stalking.
This case is not unique as other cases of AI voice cloning misuse have been reported globally, including in Pakistan and Texas. In response to the growing misuse of AI technology, OpenAI decided to limit the public use of its Voice Engine text-to-speech generation platform. US lawmakers have introduced bills to prevent tech companies from using an individual’s face, voice or name without permission.
The Baltimore County police case highlights the potential risks of AI voice cloning technology and the need for stricter regulations. The misuse of these technologies can have serious consequences and impact individuals and institutions. As AI technology continues to advance rapidly, it is crucial that we address its ethical and legal implications to prevent further misuse and harm.
Overall, while there are many benefits to AI technology in various fields like healthcare, finance or transportation; we must be cautious about how it is used as there are potential risks associated with it if not regulated properly.
