Public Citizen Demands OpenAI Withdraw Sora Video App Over Deepfake Risks
Public Citizen called on OpenAI to withdraw Sora 2, its AI video generation app, arguing that its rushed launch shows reckless disregard for product safety and enables creation of non-consensual deepfakes that threaten democracy and individual privacy rights.
What happened
Public Citizen sent a letter on Tuesday to OpenAI and CEO Sam Altman demanding that the company withdraw Sora 2, its AI video generation application, from public access.
The nonprofit alleged that the rushed launch of the application to get ahead of competitors shows a pattern of OpenAI releasing products that are inherently unsafe or lack necessary safeguards. The group also sent the letter to the U.S. Congress.
Reported impact
Public Citizen expressed concern that Sora 2 enables the creation of unconsented images and realistic deepfakes, contributing to proliferation of non-consensual synthetic media.
The organization stated that the application shows reckless disregard for product safety, the right of people to control their own image, and the stability of democracy.
Index analysis
Sora 2 videos created on OpenAI's application have been shared on TikTok, Instagram, X and Facebook. Popular video types include false doorbell camera recordings depicting scenarios such as a boa constrictor on a porch or an alligator approaching a child, and videos depicting public figures such as Queen Elizabeth II rapping.
OpenAI has restricted AI creations of public figures including Michael Jackson, Martin Luther King Jr. and Mister Rogers, but only after protests from heirs and an actors' union.
Governance controls
OpenAI did not respond to requests for comment on Tuesday regarding the demands from Public Citizen.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.