Three-quarters of Britons support mandatory labelling of AI-generated images on social media to prevent deception, according to new polling. The research, conducted by the House of Commons Library for the Liberal Democrats, reveals that 73% of voters believe there should be a legal requirement to label fake videos, with over half strongly supporting the move.
Deepfake sparks scam warnings
The call for action follows a fake video depicting Nigel Farage attacking Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, which was widely shared on X this week. The clip is believed to be used to direct users to overseas cryptocurrency scams. Andrew Bailey warned that such scams are on the rise, urging the public to stay vigilant.
Liberal Democrat technology spokeswoman Victoria Collins said: 'We are drowning in an AI slopocalypse that is actively warping reality. Tech giants cannot be left to self-regulate while the online world degenerates into a digital Wild West.' She called for a legally required labelling system enforced by Ofcom, comparing it to food standards.
Current measures inconsistent
While platforms like TikTok have measures to identify AI content, critics note that X has no specific guidance. The polling of 2,234 adults found only one in ten oppose a legal requirement. Martin Lewis previously condemned 'terrifyingly convincing' deepfakes appearing to endorse products.
Labour Party chair Anna Turley said she considers boycotting X, citing concerns about disinformation in democracy. The government is reportedly taking the issue seriously.
