How Generative Graphics AI Might Be Used to Embed Hidden Messages

November 3, 2023

This essay is the work of a dumb humanoid. No smart software required.

Subliminal advertising is back, now with an AI boost. At least that is the conclusion of one Tweeter (X-er?) who posted a few examples of the allegedly frightful possibilities. The Creative Bloq considers, “Should We Be Scared of Hidden Messages in AI Optical Illusions?” Writer Joseph Foley tells us:

“Some of the AI optical illusions we’ve seen recently have been slightly mesmerizing, but some people are concerned that they could also be dangerous. ‘Many talk about the dangers of “AGI” taking over humans. But you should worry more about humans using AI to control other humans,’ Cocktail Peanut wrote in a post on Twitter, providing the example of the McDonald’s logo embedded in an anime-style AI-generated illustration. The first example wasn’t very subtle. But Peanut followed up with less obvious optical illusions, all made using a Stable Diffusion-powered Hugging Face space called Diffusion Illusion HQ created by Angry PenguinPNG. The workflow for making the illusions, using Monster Labs QR Control Net, was apparently discovered by accident. The ControlNet technique allows users to specify inputs, for example specific images or words, to gain more control over AI image generations. Monster Labs’ tool was created to allow QR codes to be used as input so the AI would generate usable but artistic QR codes as an output, but users discovered that it could also be used to hide patterns or words in AI-generated scenes.”

Hidden messages in ads have been around since 1957, though they are officially banned as “deceptive advertising” in the US. The concern here is that AI will make the technique much, much cheaper and easier. Interesting but not really surprising. Should we be concerned? Foley thinks not. He notes the few studies on subliminal advertising suggest it is not very effective. Will companies, and even some governments, try it anyway? Probably.

Cynthia Murrell, November 3, 2023

Written by Stephen E. Arnold · Filed Under Advertising, News

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Stephen E. Arnold monitors search, content processing, text mining and related topics from his high-tech nerve center in rural Kentucky. He tries to winnow the goose feathers from the giblets. He works with colleagues worldwide to make this Web log useful to those who want to go "beyond search". Contact him at sa [at] arnoldit.com. His Web site with additional information about search is arnoldit.com.