The fight against AI-generated robocalls and robotexts was intensified by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Wednesday with the proposal of new disclosure rules. The FCC released a notice of proposed rulemaking, which seeks public comment on a measure requiring callers to disclose their use of AI in generating calls and texts at the outset. FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the agency's commitment to transparency in its efforts related to AI, citing their previous actions against a robocall featuring an AI-generated imitation of President Joe Biden. The FCC had proposed significant fines against the Democratic operative responsible and the telecom carrier involved, as well as ruling that voice-cloning technology in robocalls violates the Telephone Consumer Protection Act. Rosenworcel further highlighted the importance of transparency and swift action to combat fraud and emphasized the potential benefits of AI technologies. The proposed rules would require AI disclosures to be made at the beginning of a call, with consumer consent being a prerequisite for receiving such calls.

Specific protections for AI usage that aid consumers with disabilities without compromising consumer protection liabilities are also addressed. The FCC commissioners also voted in favor of enhancements to the agency's robocall mitigation database, seeking comments on how to ensure up-to-date and verified filings in the database. Rosenworcel mentioned the agency's efforts to make the database more accurate, effective, and secure, including penalties for false and inaccurate information. Additionally, she highlighted a recent memorandum of understanding with the Treasury Department's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, which would grant the FCC access to Bank Secrecy Act information for tracking the entities involved in the proliferation of unwanted calls and texts. Rosenworcel expressed confidence in making progress against scammers through collaborative efforts with industry traceback groups and state attorneys general.