Google has implemented restrictions on its AI chatbot, Gemini, preventing it from providing answers to queries related to elections globally, where elections are currently taking place.
This move reflects Google’s concerns about potential misuse and the generation of inaccurate or misleading responses by generative AI tools during election processes. The restrictions have been rolled out in the United States and are currently being introduced in India and other major countries with upcoming elections.
Queries about political parties, candidates, and politicians now prompt a preset message on Gemini, stating, “I’m still learning how to answer this question.
In the meantime, try Google Search.” Despite these restrictions, there are instances where the AI tool may still produce answers, particularly when queries include typos. Google acknowledges the need for ongoing adjustments to address prompt engineering tactics.
In a blog post, Google emphasized its commitment to providing high-quality information for election-related queries and the continuous improvement of protections.
The move in India coincides with the announcement of general elections and follows an advisory from the Indian government requiring tech firms to obtain approval before launching new AI models in the country.
The advisory, initially causing confusion, clarified that it applied to “significant” tech companies and not startups. The Indian government’s action was prompted by a previous incident where Gemini responded to a query about Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s alleged fascism, leading to criticism and accusations of violating IT Rules, 2021.
Search Bias, Algorithmic Bias and AI models wth bias – are real violations of the Safety & Trust obligations placed on Platforms under Rule 3(1)(b) of IT rules under regulatory framework in India
— Rajeev Chandrasekhar 🇮🇳(Modiyude Kutumbam) (@Rajeev_GoI) November 16, 2023
Those who are aggrieved by this can file FIRs against such platforms and safe… https://t.co/cMp71tXDW2
This move comes after Google suspended Gemini’s image generation capabilities due to historical inaccuracies and announced plans to release an improved version.
The extent of the restrictions’ duration, whether Google will unblock Gemini after elections conclude, and the full list of countries where the update is live remain uncertain.