The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) plans to investigate the impact of AI on robocalls, which continue to be a problem for consumers. In 2022, there were over 120,000 complaints received by the FCC regarding automated robocalls. FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel intends to propose an inquiry to examine how AI technology affects illegal and unwanted robocalls. While AI could provide benefits in combating robocalls, it also raises concerns about privacy and safety. The FCC aims to understand these issues to better protect consumers and develop appropriate regulations.
FCC to Investigate AI’s Impact on Robocalls
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is taking steps to address the issue of unwanted robocalls using artificial intelligence (AI). In 2022 alone, the FCC received over 120,000 complaints about automated robocalls, with Americans being targeted by more than 50 billion robocalls. FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has announced a proposal to investigate how AI can both help and hinder efforts to combat illegal and unwanted robocalls and texts.
The Potential of AI in Robocall Management
AI has the potential to revolutionize robocall management. With AI, robocalls can be customized and targeted to specific individuals, rather than using a generic message. However, this also means that AI-generated robocalls can become more sophisticated and difficult to detect. While this poses challenges, there is also significant potential to leverage AI technology to benefit communications networks and customers in the fight against unwanted robocalls and robotexts.
Aims of the Proposed Inquiry
Rosenworcel’s proposal, subject to a vote in November, aims to investigate several key aspects:
- How AI technologies align with the FCC’s responsibilities under the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
- If and when future AI technologies should fall under the TCPA
- The impact of AI on existing regulatory frameworks and future policy formulation
- The need to verify the authenticity of AI-generated voice or text content from trusted sources
- Next steps required to advance this inquiry
Challenges and Privacy Concerns
Determining which aspects of AI should fall under the FCC’s jurisdiction is a complex task. Recent incidents, such as deepfake robocalls using the voice of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, highlight the need for clarity. While political or social communication robocalls are currently legal, questions arise regarding disclaimers for AI-generated calls and the potential for communication companies to monitor calls using AI. The FCC aims to understand the benefits and risks of AI to combat harms, utilize AI’s advantages, and protect consumers’ privacy and safety.
Evolve Your Company with AI
If you want to stay competitive and leverage AI to redefine your company’s way of work, consider the FCC’s investigation into AI’s impact on robocalls. Here are some practical steps to get started:
- Identify Automation Opportunities: Locate key customer interaction points that can benefit from AI.
- Define KPIs: Ensure your AI initiatives have measurable impacts on business outcomes.
- Select an AI Solution: Choose tools that align with your needs and offer customization.
- Implement Gradually: Start with a pilot, gather data, and expand AI usage judiciously.
For AI KPI management advice and continuous insights into leveraging AI, connect with us at hello@itinai.com. Stay tuned on our Telegram channel t.me/itinainews or follow us on Twitter @itinaicom.
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