Beyond CAPTCHA: Identifying People with AI

September 6, 2024

Researchers from OpenAI and MIT have proposed a new concept called “personhood credentials” to verify users’ authenticity online without revealing their identities. The system would use cryptographic techniques to create a unique identifier for each user, allowing them to prove they are human without disclosing personal information. This approach is necessary as traditional methods of verification, such as CAPTCHAs, are becoming obsolete due to the increasing sophistication of AI-generated content. The proposed system could have significant implications for online commerce and social media platforms by enabling businesses to implement stronger controls against automated bots and fraudulent transactions.