Governor Josh Shapiro has signed Senate Bill 649 into law, making it a third-degree felony to use artificial intelligence (AI) to create fake voices, images, or videos for the purpose of scamming or harming Pennsylvanians.
The law targets so-called “forged digital likenesses,” such as deepfakes and AI-generated voice clones. It empowers prosecutors to take action against scammers who use such tools in schemes like impersonating family members. The legislation goes into effect immediately and expands on a 2024 law banning AI-generated child sexual abuse content and non-consensual intimate images.
“In Pennsylvania, we’re embracing AI innovation while also protecting people from its misuse,” said Governor Shapiro. “If you use AI to scam Pennsylvanians, you will be held accountable.”
Senators Tracy Pennycuick and John Kane, who sponsored the bipartisan bill, emphasized the growing risks posed by AI-enabled scams and the need for responsible regulation.
Older adults remain especially vulnerable. The Pennsylvania Department of Aging reported nearly 18,500 cases of financial exploitation last year, making it the most common form of abuse among seniors. “This law creates real consequences for those who would use AI to rob older adults of their retirements,” said Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich.
The law complements broader consumer protection efforts led by state agencies. In 2024, the Department of Banking and Securities reached 35,000 residents through educational events and recovered millions for victims. Meanwhile, the Insurance Department reminded insurers that AI-based decisions must comply with anti-discrimination laws.
To report scams or get help, Pennsylvanians can call 1-866-PACOMPLAINT, visit pa.gov/consumer, or email [email protected].
With this law, Pennsylvania joins a growing number of states working to regulate the dark side of AI.
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