A new trend on the internet has interested many people. They are using AI to change personal photos into studio Ghibli avatars. Those who love Japanese animations can now appreciate their photos dressed in the classical Ghibli art style from My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and other films. It is a fun and creative approach to promoting these worlds while celebrating cultures with friends and followers.
On the other hand, some cybersecurity experts are concerned about these types of services and trends. With the protection of your image, there could be attached dangers. A greater concern is posed by these technologies capturing pictures of your identity without your consent. The worry further extends to the idea that your actual physical features can make you more at risk than you thought.
Your face cannot be disguised the same way an exposed password might in the future. Revealed identity can result in great dangers, as the systems may shred the files and expose sensitive confidential information. Because facial recognition is rapidly changing with every second, the available data offered in the form of these avatar-emerging tools is likely forged or used to blackmail people in the future.
As cybersecurity specialist John Patel states, “Facial data is facially is incredibly personal and unique. You can change a password, but your face cannot be altered if it is compromised.” He further adds that, “If these platforms do not disclose how your data is utilized, it can expose multiple security layers of poor mechanisms.”
The problem is not as simple as manipulating an avatar. It is far more complex. The issue is the storage and utilization of personal data, especially biometric data. Some of these services may offer a vague description about the processes followed involving your images after animation, which pose threats of exploitation to users.
Even when the general populace has little concern regarding the risk, experts strongly propose avoiding the uploading of personal photographs without adequate caution and reading the policies provided usign these platforms. In addition, ensure that the data retention policy possesses strong data security measures and does not extend beyond the acceptable timeframe.
With the ongoing changes in AI trends, restraining the boundaries of innovation is still a prudent measure. In regard to the previous example, drawings of self-portraits as Ghibli characters may appear fascinating, yet contemplating the bigger picture along with the safety of personal data is crucial. After all, exposing confidential data can lead to serious consequences, no matter how delightful the animation is.