Fearing AI Voice Theft... Taylor Swift Hits Back Against Unauthorized AI Use

Taylor Swift Files Trademarks for Voice and Photos

As concerns grow over fake content exploiting celebrities' voices and images due to advances in artificial intelligence (AI) technology, pop star Taylor Swift has taken steps to secure the rights to her voice and photos.

"Reflects Concerns Over AI's Potential Risks"

Taylor Swift. Photo by AFP News Agency

On April 27 (local time), U.S. entertainment outlet Variety reported that Swift's asset management company, TAS Rights Management, filed trademark applications for two voice clips and one photo with the patent and trademark office on April 24. The applications include two voice clips featuring Swift's signature greetings: "Hey, it's Taylor Swift" and "Hey, it's Taylor." The photo in question depicts Swift holding a pink guitar, wearing silver boots, and a rainbow-colored bodysuit.

Josh Gerben, an intellectual property (IP) attorney, explained that this trademark filing appears to reflect the entertainment industry's concerns about the potential risks of AI using an artist's voice and image without permission. Previously, Hollywood actor Matthew McConaughey also filed trademark applications with the patent and trademark office for eight items, including his voice and photos, in an effort to prevent unauthorized AI use.

Taylor Swift Most Frequently Targeted in Deepfake Scams

An AI-generated image posted on social media by U.S. President Donald Trump "accepting" Taylor Swift's support. Truth Social

As concerns mount over the spread of AI-driven malicious content, actual cases of harm are also being reported. According to cybersecurity firm McAfee in November last year, Swift was found to be the global celebrity most frequently targeted by deepfake impersonation scams.

Swift is such an influential star that the term 'Taylornomics' was coined to describe the phenomenon of her concerts drawing crowds and boosting local economies in each city she visits. In fact, something as simple as her wearing a T-shirt featuring an otter has helped raise approximately 2.3 million dollars for otter conservation funds, demonstrating her far-reaching impact. This influence is cited as the reason why she has become the most frequently exploited target in deepfake-related scams.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump also sparked controversy shortly before the 2024 presidential election by sharing an AI-generated image implying Swift was supporting him.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.