3 Questions: What you need to know about audio deepfakes | MIT News

Recently, audio deepfakes have received negative attention due to incidents like an AI-generated robocall impersonating Joe Biden in New Hampshire. However, there are also potential positive uses for this technology that often go unnoticed. In a Q&A with MIT News, postdoc Nauman Dawalatabad discusses both the concerns and benefits of audio deepfakes. The full interview can be viewed in the video below.

Q: What are the ethical considerations surrounding concealing the identity of the source speaker in audio deepfakes, especially in creating innovative content?

A: While generative models are commonly used in entertainment, speech contains sensitive information beyond just the content being spoken. This includes details like age, gender, accent, and even health information. Advancements in technology are needed to protect individuals’ privacy and prevent the unintentional disclosure of private data.

Q: How can we address the challenges posed by audio deepfakes in spear-phishing attacks and develop effective countermeasures?

A: The use of audio deepfakes in spear-phishing attacks can lead to misinformation, identity theft, and privacy violations. Detecting fake audio involves artifact and liveness detection techniques, with companies like Pindrop working on solutions to identify deepfake audios.

Q: Despite potential misuse, what are some positive aspects of audio deepfake technology and how do you see the future relationship between AI and audio perception evolving?

A: Audio deepfakes have positive applications in healthcare, education, and entertainment. For example, voice conversion technologies can improve communication for individuals with speech impairments. The future of AI and audio perception is promising, with advancements in psychoacoustics and augmented reality enhancing audio experiences for various sectors.