Telecom Company Fined $1 Million for AI-Generated Robocalls in New Hampshire
Lingo Telecom has agreed to pay a $1 million fine to settle charges brought by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) over deceptive robocalls sent to New Hampshire voters. The calls, which used artificial intelligence to mimic President Joe Biden’s voice, were distributed on January 21, just before the state’s presidential primary.
The settlement resolves the FCC’s enforcement action, which initially sought a $2 million penalty. As part of the agreement, Lingo Telecom will implement strict caller ID authentication rules and verify the accuracy of information provided by its customers and upstream providers.
The controversial robocalls falsely suggested that voting in the primary would prevent participation in the November general election, potentially discouraging voter turnout. Thousands of New Hampshire voters received these misleading messages.
Steve Kramer, the political consultant behind the calls, still faces a proposed $6 million FCC fine and state criminal charges. Kramer reportedly paid a magician and self-described “digital nomad” to create the AI-generated recording. He claims his intention was to highlight the dangers of AI and prompt legislative action, rather than influence the primary outcome.
If convicted, Kramer could face up to seven years in prison for voter suppression and an additional year for impersonating a candidate.
FCC Chairperson Jessica Rosenworcel emphasized the importance of transparency in communications, especially when AI is involved. “We’re putting unlawful robocallers on notice, especially those who try to mislead consumers,” Rosenworcel stated.
Loyaan Egal, Chief of the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau, highlighted the threat posed by caller ID spoofing and AI voice-cloning technology. “Bad actors are now using AI-generated voices in unsolicited robocalls to extort vulnerable family members, imitate celebrities, and misinform voters,” Egal warned.
This case underscores the potential for AI technology to be misused in political contexts and demonstrates the FCC’s commitment to protecting the integrity of communications networks and ensuring public trust. As AI technology continues to advance, regulators and lawmakers face new challenges in safeguarding democratic processes and preventing deceptive practices in political communications.