Google Files Lawsuit Against Scammers Impersonating Bard AI, Installing Malware on Users’ Computers
Google has taken legal action against anonymous individuals in a bid to combat the marketing of counterfeit versions of its artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot, Bard. According to Google, scammers have been using names like Google AI and AIGoogleBard to deceive users into downloading malware onto their devices. The malware then enables the scammers to steal social media login credentials. The lawsuit, filed in a California federal court, seeks to block the scheme and recover the scammers’ profits.
The defendants, known as Does 1-3, are accused of misusing Google’s trademarks and exploiting its reputation. Google’s general counsel, Halimah DeLaine Prado, stated that the scammers had deceived numerous people worldwide. In response, Google has submitted nearly 300 takedown requests related to this case. Legal action of this nature is crucial, according to DeLaine Prado, as it establishes legal precedents, disrupts scammers’ tactics, and increases the consequences for malicious actors.
Google’s Bard chatbot, which utilizes AI technology, was made publicly available in March. It is designed to engage in conversation with users and has been integrated into various Google products. The scammers allegedly employ social media posts and web pages to promote fake downloads of Bard, even though the legitimate version is not downloadable. Once victims unknowingly install the malware, the scammers gain control over their social media accounts. Small businesses and Facebook advertisers are among the targets of this scheme.
In addition to the trademark infringement and malware distribution, Google has accused the defendants of violating its terms of service by impersonating the company and using platforms like Google Sites and Google Drive to host the malware.
Google is seeking legal remedies to halt the scam and recover the scammers’ ill-gotten gains. The case, titled Google LLC v. Does 1-3, has been filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.
As more tech companies, including Google, incorporate AI into their offerings, it is crucial to ensure the integrity and security of these technologies. By taking legal action against scammers, Google aims to protect its users and maintain the trust associated with its brand.
