Australian police are creating an AI prototype with Microsoft to decipher emojis and Gen Z slang used by online predators targeting children.
SYDNEY: Australian police are developing an AI prototype to help decipher Gen Z slang and emoji-laden messages used by online predators.
Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said social media has become a breeding ground for bullying, sexual exploitation and radicalisation.
Police are collaborating with Microsoft to create a tool that unravels sinister messages hidden behind seemingly innocent emojis and slang.
“Clever AFP members, with Microsoft, are developing a prototype AI tool that will interpret emojis and Gen Z-and-Alpha slang in encrypted communications,” Barrett stated.
“This prototype aims to make it quicker for our teams to save children from harm much earlier.”
Barrett also warned about the rise of “crimefluencers” who use social media expertise to target vulnerable young users.
“They are crimefluencers, and they are motivated by anarchy and hurting others, with most of their victims pre-teen or teenage girls,” she said.
Australia will force social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok to remove users under 16 starting December 10.
Global regulators are closely watching whether Australia’s sweeping social media restrictions can effectively address online dangers. – AFP
