Taylor Swift files trademark applications to counter AI misuse
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · May 8
Taylor Swift files trademark applications to counter AI misuse
5 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · May 8
The singer submitted three applications to the US Patent and Trademark Office last month, while Matthew McConaughey has registered video, audio and image marks for similar protection.
Lawyers say the filings could deter unauthorised deepfakes and false endorsements, but it remains unclear whether courts would uphold likeness and voice trademarks as a strong federal remedy.
Experts say the approach mainly suits public figures with commercial brands, as state publicity laws and the proposed No FAKES Act may offer broader protection if enacted.
As celebrities trademark their identities, what legal recourse do ordinary people have against deepfake misuse?
Beyond trademarks, is the law ready to define the ownership of a human's digital self?
With some stars selling their AI clones, are we creating a new market for digital identity?