Urgent need to protect our identities in the age of AI
The rise of technologies powered by artificial intelligence introduces both opportunities for innovation and new vulnerabilities, especially as it becomes easier than ever to copy a person’s face, voice or body using artificial intelligence.
Denmark has just made history by passing a groundbreaking law: it gives every citizen legal ownership of their own face, voice and body. This means that no one — whether it is a company, a stranger or an AI developer — can use a person’s image or voice without their clear permission.
In short, you now own you.
This law comes at a critical time, as around the world, we are seeing a dangerous rise in “deepfakes” — fake videos, voice recordings and photos that look and sound real but are entirely computer-generated. These can be used to spread misinformation, commit fraud or violate someone’s dignity and privacy.
Children and young people are especially vulnerable. That’s why Australia has introduced its own protective measure called the Child Internet Safety Act, which prohibits children under 16 from creating accounts on social-media platforms. The goal is to reduce exploitation, protect mental health, and shield young users from harmful content and deceptive technologies.
These examples show that the world is starting to recognise the urgent need for digital protections. Bermuda now has the opportunity to lead in the Caribbean and protect its citizens from the misuse of AI. We call on Bermuda’s lawmakers, educators and community leaders to study these models and act swiftly. Our laws must evolve to match the realities of our time, ensuring that every person, especially our children, has the right to be safe, private and in control of their own identity.
Let us work together to build a digital future that respects human dignity.
• Dion Smith ran as a candidate for the One Bermuda Alliance in Warwick North Central (Constituency 27) at the February 2025 General Election