By Mohamad Shakhy
Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become an integral part of our lives, influencing everything from social media algorithms to advanced systems in modern vehicles. While AI offers numerous benefits, its misuse is rapidly escalating, leading to threats, fraud, theft, and even loss of life. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for Iraq and Kurdistan to address this growing problem by enacting new laws that protect citizens from the dangers of AI misuse.
The Threat of Deepfakes
Deepfakes are a prime example of AI’s potential for harm. These manipulated videos and images, created using deep learning techniques, can convincingly depict people in scenarios they never experienced. The repercussions are severe, ranging from reputational damage to psychological distress and even physical harm. Women are particularly vulnerable, often targeted by deepfake pornography, which has been used to harass, blackmail, and defame them. A 2019 report by Deeptrace found that 96% of deepfake videos online were pornographic, and nearly all featured non-consenting women. These are not just pranks; they are serious violations of privacy and personal rights.
Moreover, deepfakes have been used to manipulate political opinions and spread disinformation. For instance, a deepfake video of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy was circulated in 2022, falsely showing him surrendering to Russian forces, demonstrating how deepfakes can be weaponized to influence public perception and destabilize societies. Despite the severity of these threats, the current legal frameworks in Iraq do not offer adequate protection. This lack of specific legislation is a serious failure to safeguard citizens in the digital age.
AI-Driven Scams and Fraud
Beyond deepfakes, AI is increasingly being used in sophisticated scams and frauds. AI-generated communications can deceive people into revealing sensitive information or transferring money, using AI to mimic the voices of loved ones or trusted figures. In a 2020 incident highlighted by The Wall Street Journal, criminals used AI to impersonate a CEO’s voice, authorizing a fraudulent bank transfer of $35 million. This demonstrates the advanced level of deception AI can facilitate, rendering traditional security measures ineffective.
AI is also being used to create highly convincing phishing emails that evade spam filters and trick even the most cautious users. A study by the cybersecurity firm Symantec found that AI-enhanced phishing attacks were 40% more successful than traditional methods. Cybercriminals exploit AI to hack systems, steal intellectual property, and manipulate public opinion, creating risks that affect every aspect of society. These threats are not speculative; they are immediate concerns that require urgent legal responses.
The Inadequacy of Existing Laws
Despite these growing threats, we are still relying on outdated laws, such as the Law of Misusing Mobile Phones of 2008. This legislation was developed long before the AI revolution, making it inadequate for addressing the complexities of AI misuse. AI technologies are now embedded in much more than just our phones—they are in media outlets, cars, and even household devices. For example, AI systems now control smart homes, where a breach could lead to significant invasions of privacy and safety. Relying on old legislation to combat new technology is dangerously irresponsible which is why it is essential for Kurdistan to consider new, comprehensive legislation tailored to address the specific challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
A Call for Comprehensive Legislation
New laws specifically targeting AI misuse are urgently needed. Such legislation should cover a wide range of AI-related offenses, from the creation and distribution of deepfakes to AI-driven scams, cyberattacks, and data breaches. It should also address the use of AI in autonomous weapons and surveillance, which poses new ethical and security challenges. The potential for AI to be used in warfare or mass surveillance raises serious concerns about human rights and privacy that current laws do not adequately address. Penalties for AI misuse must be strict to deter potential offenders and protect victims.
Additionally, lawmakers should consider frameworks like the European Union’s AI Act, which aims to regulate high-risk AI applications and ensure they meet stringent safety and ethical standards. This includes mandatory impact assessments, transparency requirements, and human oversight for AI systems deemed high-risk. Iraq and Kurdistan could benefit from adopting similar measures to create a safe and fair digital environment.
The Importance of Public Education and Collaboration
Public education about AI risks is another critical component. Awareness campaigns can help citizens understand how to protect themselves and recognize the dangers of AI misuse. Educational initiatives could focus on teaching people how to spot deepfakes and phishing attempts. Collaboration among lawmakers, technologists, and human rights advocates is essential to create effective, forward-looking policies that balance innovation with public safety.
AI misuse is not a problem that will disappear on its own. As AI continues to evolve, so too will the tactics used by those who seek to exploit it for malicious purposes. As AI technology continues to develop, Kurdistan have an opportunity to lead in crafting forward-thinking legislation that addresses these new realities. By acting now, we can ensure a secure and fair digital landscape for all citizens.
Conclusion
To conclude, addressing the misuse of AI requires updated legal frameworks that are capable of responding to the unique challenges posed by advanced technologies. By modernizing our laws, Iraq and Kurdistan can protect their citizens and foster a safe, equitable future in the digital age.