SXSW Used AI-Powered Trademark Tool to Censor Dissent on Instagram

7 hours ago

An AI tool named BrandShield was used to automatically take down social media posts criticizing SXSW, even when they did not misuse trademarks.
Posts from groups like Vocal Texas and Smash By Smash West were removed for mentioning SXSW, despite trademark law allowing critical speech.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation intervened, noting that automated takedowns lack a counter-notice process like copyright law, leaving content down.
SXSW stated they use third-party services to enforce trademarks but respect free expression, acknowledging errors can occur.
Critics argue the system is overly broad, using AI to suppress dissent without human review, and that it fails to distinguish infringement from free speech.

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