California Bill Would Ask Social Media Firms to Verify Accounts

A California bill would compel social media platforms to verify users with large followings, with the goal of curbing the spread of online misinformation. If enacted, California would likely be the first state to take this approach.

Supporters of the measure (S.B. 1228) say it’s meant to help California voters weed out falsehoods in an election year, but critics warn it could face legal challenges.

The debate comes amid concerns over how realistic AI-generated content has become, including those used in political races. A robocall in January, for instance, impersonated President Joe Biden urging New Hampshire residents to ...