PNP steps up cyberpatrol over warning on fake AI-generated actions, statements using real person's face

Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), ordered cybercrime police personnel to step up monitoring and operation against artificial intelligence-generated photos and videos that could mislead the public and spread false information on social media. This, after the National Privacy Commission (NPC) warned the public against using artificial intelligence to generate photos and videos using a real person's face, among them are false depictions of a person's actions and statements. Nartatez said he already directed the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group to strictly monitor malicious and misleading AI content as such material could also be exploited by criminal groups for illicit activities. “This illegal activity is a big challenge that requires not only coordination with other agencies but also cooperation with the public. Our collective efforts will prevail over misuse of advances in digital technology,” said PGEN Nartatez. The NPC earlier reminded the public that the processing of personal data should be for a legitimate purpose as it underscored the risks posed by the misuse of personal information in creating deceptive digital content. The PNP has been investing in modernization and crime-fighting capability using digital technology. Nartatez vowed to prioritize skills enhancement and equipment purchase to boost the ACG’s operational capability when he assumed the PNP leadership last year wherein he cited the need for a focus on the PNP support system to properly address cybercrimes. “Our cybercrime capabilities must be responsive and should adapt to the latest cyber threats and trends. We will prevent these crimes proactively by establishing mechanisms to address emerging threats swiftly,” said Nartatez in his speech.