Instagram Tightens Rules on AI-Generated Human Profiles

Instagram is set to implement stricter policies regarding the labeling of profiles that feature AI-generated human likenesses. Under the new rules, these accounts will be required to display a specific tag indicating that the depicted figure is not a real person. Failure to comply may result in reduced content visibility on the platform.

The new "AI-generated profile" label aims to provide users with immediate transparency, preventing situations where individuals believe they are interacting with a real person before discovering it's an AI creation. Instagram noted user dissatisfaction with encountering seemingly human profiles that were later revealed to be artificial.

Accounts featuring AI-generated humans that do not self-label may face content distribution limitations in the near future. This move is not intended to broadly restrict AI-generated content but rather to specifically address profiles presenting artificial humans. Previously, Instagram offered a broader, optional "AI creator" label for users who regularly posted AI-assisted content.

The change comes amid rapid advancements in AI technology, making the creation of convincing virtual characters more accessible. The platform has seen a rise in AI-generated "influencers" promoting products and services. Investigations globally have highlighted the prevalence of these artificial figures, including some posing as medical experts, raising concerns about users' ability to distinguish between real and artificial personas and the potential for misinformation.

In Israel, AI-generated figures and influencers have also been utilized in marketing campaigns by major companies. Users who believe their account has been incorrectly flagged as an AI-generated profile can appeal through the "Account Status" section within the app.