Maine Teacher’s Image Featured in a Fake Video Using AI

A teacher in the AOS #47 school district was featured in fake photos and videos created by artificial intelligence.

The School District Includes Three Schools in the Greater Bangor Area

AOS #47 includes the Airline School in Aurora, the Center Drive School in Orrington, and Dedham Elementary. School officials have not revealed where the instructor works, but say they are committed to preserving their dignity and well-being.

READ MORE: Two Maine Public Schools Slated for Closure

Maine Teacher's Image Was Featured in Photos and Videos

Superintendent James Stoneton sent a letter to parents stating that the attack was malicious and involved videos and photos falsely portraying the teacher. The images were created with artificial intelligence technology and circulated online.

This is a case of digital impersonation - an increasingly common and harmful use of artificial intelligence - and we are treating it with the seriousness it deserves.

He says the teacher is a 'valued and trusted' school community member who has done nothing wrong.

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Maine Superintendent Asks Parents to Talk to Children About Online Responsibility

Officials have reported the online account that posted the video, which WABI-TV reports has now been taken down. But Stoneton says a few students may have accessed the video and shared it with others. Those instances are being addressed.

Superintendent Stoneton is asking parents to talk with their children about the importance of using technology responsibly, including stressing the significant harm their actions can cause.