Unclear ownership of AI tools used by journalists
Artificial intelligence tools are increasingly being used by media companies. But who owns these tools? Unwittingly, journalists and newsrooms using AI fact-checking tools may be working with biased companies that could compromise the integrity of their work, according to a study by Estonia-based think tank Media and Journalism Research Center. The study shows that of 100 AI tool companies only 33% are transparent, with 67% lacking critical data on ownership, finances, and other basic information.
“In the absence of this data, it is challenging to ascertain how an AI tool company is influenced by investors or stakeholders, its size, or the individuals or entities that can be held accountable for the tool.”
“This is a significant indicator of potential challenges, not only for the future of journalism, as news media and journalists rely on these tools, but also for the future of communications, as these entities gain increasing influence in shaping narratives online.”
The report stresses that consumers may be unaware of the source of AI-generated information, which is being disseminated by journalists and presented as factual.”
“While there has been a rapid increase in research on the use of AI in media and journalism, there is still much to be discovered about the ownership structures and financial performance of the companies that offer these services.”
“In light of the various applications of AI in media and journalism, the lack of transparency is a significant concern, particularly with regard to the transparency of AI tools utilised for fact-checking information in journalism.”
Of the 100 AI tools identified, 23 included AI fact-checking services, and of these 23, only five (21%) could be classified as adequately transparent. 13 of them, or over 56% of the total, are considered not transparent, the report says.
The report says that the AI tools are predominantly owned and operated by private sector entities,” indicating that financial and ownership factors influence the efficacy of generative AI tools”.
“In order to maintain the integrity of media and journalism in the age of AI, it is essential to understand who has a stake in these AI tool companies and how AI is being used by the media.”
The report investigates the ownership, financial information, and intended use of 100 AI tools used by newsrooms around the world. Big tech companies such as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft are not included. The study is focused on companies that are more specifically engaged in the AI industry. It is written by Sydney Martin and is called Control Beyond Code: Ownership and Financial Insights of AI Used in Journalism.
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