TOKYO - As artificial intelligence rapidly evolves, digital tools designed to distinguish humans from AI are gaining attention as an essential safeguard for the internet age.
One of the most pressing challenges accompanying AI’s rapid development is the rise of deepfakes. AI-generated videos and voices that closely mimic real people are increasingly being misused in scams, reputational attacks and manipulation of public opinion, while sophisticated bots are also being used to buy up event tickets illegally and resell them at inflated prices.
Amid these growing concerns, a digital identity system known as “World ID,” designed to distinguish humans from AI, has already attracted more than 17 million registered users worldwide.
The initiative aims to build new infrastructure to protect trust and safety on the internet in the AI era.
A survey on trust in AI found that roughly 80 percent of respondents expressed concern about impersonation and fake accounts created using AI, while also saying they worry about being unable to identify fake images or misinformation. Against this backdrop, the program Live News α focused on digital ID technology that can verify whether a user is human.
Yuka Ebihara, a presenter on the program, remarked, “I’ve lived my life without ever really needing to prove that I’m human.”
Tomoe Makino, Japan representative for Tools for Humanity, explained: “In the age of AI, we need a way to distinguish whether something is a human, a program or a bot. That’s why a system called World ID is necessary. This device is used to register for it.”
The initiative is backed by Sam Altman, chief executive of OpenAI, known for developing ChatGPT.
In some countries, long lines have formed as people seek to obtain the “proof of humanity,” and the number of global registrations has already surpassed 17 million.
The process begins by scanning each individual’s iris using a dedicated device. The iris pattern is unique to every person.
Ebihara asked whether fingerprints might be used instead of iris data. Staff members explained that fingerprints can change over time as people age, while iris patterns remain constant throughout a person’s life.
Based on the iris data, a digital ID is issued through a smartphone app. By linking this ID to social media accounts, app registrations or participation in online events, the system is expected to prevent impersonation using AI and fraudulent participation by automated bots.
Makino said, “Because we were unable to stop impersonation or information manipulation before, we believe this system could help create a society where such manipulation on social media becomes impossible.”
To protect privacy, users do not need to register personal information such as their name or address. Instead, they can verify their humanity while maintaining anonymity.
In Japan, the initiative has also partnered with Mediroam, a company with a nationwide retail network, in order to expand the installation of the specialized devices.
Koji Eguchi, president of Mediroam, said, “This system to distinguish AI from humans is being developed by Sam Altman, who has been at the forefront of creating AI. We want people to be able to authenticate themselves easily in places close to home.”
The devices have already been installed at more than 150 locations across Japan, including bathing facilities and relaxation centers operated by Mediroam, and the cumulative number of World ID verifications in the country has exceeded 20,000.
The system also provides benefits for participating businesses by increasing customer traffic and contributing to regional revitalization.
Users who obtain the ID receive a cryptocurrency known as “Worldcoin,” which can be exchanged within the app for various vouchers and gift certificates. Many users reportedly visit participating stores to shop or use services after acquiring their ID.
Eguchi said the company’s ultimate goal is to install 3,000 devices nationwide. “I believe this will spread rapidly. A system that can distinguish between humans and bots — something only humans can use — will become absolutely essential in cyberspace.”
Source: FNN
