A non-profit consumer advocacy organization, Public Citizen, has called for the withdrawal of OpenAI’s video-generation software, Sora 2, citing concerns about misinformation and privacy breaches. The group accused OpenAI of rushing the app’s release to gain a competitive edge, highlighting a pattern of prioritizing speed over safety.
Public Citizen’s letter to OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman criticized the company for showing a “reckless disregard” for product safety and individuals’ rights to their likeness. The group expressed worries about the erosion of trust in online content authenticity due to apps like Sora 2. The letter was also sent to the U.S. Congress.
Sora 2 is known for creating entertaining videos suitable for sharing on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. However, concerns have been raised about the potential misuse of the app, including the creation of deepfakes and non-consensual content.
Public Citizen, along with other advocacy groups and experts, has raised alarms about the risks associated with AI-generated videos and the potential impact on democracy. The organization highlighted privacy threats and the disproportionate impact on certain groups.
OpenAI has faced criticism for not doing enough to prevent harassment through its Sora app. While the company has implemented restrictions on nudity, concerns remain about the circulation of inappropriate content. Public Citizen emphasized the need for proactive design choices to address these issues before product releases.
In response to feedback and complaints, OpenAI has made some adjustments to Sora, including agreements with notable figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Bryan Cranston to prevent disrespectful depictions. However, concerns persist about the app’s impact on society and the need for better safeguards.
The organization has also faced legal challenges related to its ChatGPT chatbot, with lawsuits alleging harmful effects on users, including instances of suicide. Public Citizen drew parallels between the issues surrounding ChatGPT and Sora, emphasizing the importance of thorough testing and user safety.
OpenAI has engaged with anime creators and video game makers regarding concerns raised by a Japanese trade association. The company defended Sora’s ability to generate content based on popular characters while ensuring that copyright permissions are respected, particularly in the Japanese cultural and creative industries.
Overall, the controversy surrounding OpenAI’s Sora 2 highlights the ongoing debate over the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies to protect individuals’ rights and maintain trust in digital content.