Daily Safeguarding News - Safer Schools NI

Google tests watermark to identify AI images

Google is trialling a digital watermark to spot images which have been made by artificial intelligence (AI) in an effort to fight disinformation.
Developed by DeepMind, SynthID will identify images generated by machines.
It works by embedding changes to individual pixels in images so watermarks detectable by computers but are invisible to the human eye.
Watermarks are typically a logo or text added to an image to show ownership as well as making it more difficult for the picture to be copied and used without permission.
Google has its own image generators called Imagen, and its system for creating and checking watermarks will only apply to images created using this tool.
Deepmind have stated that it is “not foolproof against extreme image manipulation”.
Amazon and Microsoft are among other tech companies which have pledged to watermark some AI-generated content.
For more, please visit the BBC News website.

Activision has partnered with Modulate to bring voice chat moderation to Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III through utilising AI.
The technology is called ToxMod and it will work by scanning voice chat in real time for violations of the game’s code of conduct, including hate speech, harassment and discrimination.
The tool will not take action against players based on its data, but rather will submit a report to Activision’s moderators.
Human involvement will likely remain an important safeguard as research as shown that speech recognition systems can be biased in how they respond to some users.
It is currently in beta testing but will be rolled out to all players in North America today and a full global release is planned for November 10^th when Call of Duty Modern Warfare III is released.
For more, please visit the Verge website.

The study by Vodafone, found that parents find the decision of when to give their child a phone, overwhelming.
Findings also show that parents lack confidence in setting up safety features on key applications that children use, with many feeling in the dark with newer apps like Snapchat.
Over half of parents reported that the decision is difficult because they are worried about their children seeing inappropriate content or being bullied online.
To better equip parents, Vodafone has announced partnership with the NSPCC.
A key element of the partnership will be on the ongoing development on a new online platform, designed to provide parents with practical resources for buying their child’s first phone, and offering advice on how to get the best deal.
The NSPCC reports that in 2022/23, 10% of helpline calls focused on mobile phones or online platforms in August.
This highlights a spike in online safety concerns ahead of the new school term.
For more, please visit the Kent Live website.

Dr Kirsty Porter, a children’s dietitian has provided some healthy lunchbox ideas for an enjoyable lunch.
Dr Porter states that balance is key, which can be achieved through eating foods from the five food groups: Carbohydrates, Protein, Fruits and Vegetables, Dairy or dairy alternatives, and Healthy Fats.
She argues that empowering your child by involving them in the process, through allowing them to choose from options available and assemble their lunch is vital.
Further, incorporating finger foods that encourage exploration and interaction with food allow children to eat more independently.
Whilst introducing new foods is vital, familiarity plays a significant role in ensuring children enjoy meals that include their ‘trusted foods’.
Use a visually appealing lunchbox to spark their curiosity and appetite, which will make the lunch more likely to be eaten.
Rotate the options and adapt to your child’s preferences, reducing boredom.
Consider your child’s age, appetite and nutritional needs when portioning their lunch as large portions can be overwhelming.
For more, please visit the Belfast Live website.