Journalist Julia Angwin files class action lawsuit over Grammarly’s AI “sloppelgangers”

Grammarly, the popular AI-powered writing tool, is set to face a class action lawsuit over its "Expert Review" feature, which provides writing advice using the names of prominent journalists, academics, and authors without their consent. The lawsuit, filed by technology journalist Julia Angwin, is the latest development in a growing debate about the ethical use of AI and the rights of individuals in the digital age.

The "Expert Review" feature, which has been a part of Grammarly for several years, generates suggestions and corrections for users' writing, attributing the advice to well-known figures in various fields. However, these individuals were never asked for permission to have their names associated with the tool, nor were they compensated for the use of their likenesses. This has led to concerns about the authenticity of the advice and the potential for misrepresentation.

Julia Angwin, the sole named plaintiff in the original filing, is a seasoned technology journalist and the director of a project studying audience and independent media at the Harvard Kennedy School. She is also the founder of Proof News, an investigative news site that launched in 2024 and is set to relaunch later this year with new leadership. Angwin's lawyer, Peter Romer-Friedman, revealed that he has since received inquiries from "40 to 50 people" who object to being featured in the AI-powered editing tool without their consent.

In an email, Angwin expressed her perspective on the lawsuit, stating, "I do see this challenge as part of the fight!" She is currently working on a forthcoming book about fighting authoritarianism, titled "On Courage: How to be a Dissident in an Age of Fear." The class action complaint, which can be read on DocumentCloud, highlights the need for greater transparency and consent when it comes to the use of individuals' names and reputations in AI-driven applications.

The lawsuit against Grammarly raises important questions about the boundaries of AI technology and the ethical treatment of individuals in the digital space. As AI becomes increasingly integrated into our daily lives, it is crucial that companies and developers prioritize user privacy, consent, and the protection of intellectual property. The case also underscores the potential for AI to be used in ways that undermine trust in the technology and its applications.

In response to the lawsuit, Grammarly has not yet issued a public statement. However, the company has faced criticism in the past for its opaque practices and has been accused of exploiting users' data for commercial purposes. This latest development adds to the growing list of concerns about the company's handling of user information and the ethical implications of its AI technology.

The case of Julia Angwin against Grammarly is likely to spark a broader discussion about the legal and ethical implications of AI in the digital age. As AI continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, it is essential that lawmakers and technology companies work together to establish clear guidelines and protections for individuals whose names, reputations, and data are used in AI applications. The outcome of this lawsuit will be closely watched by the tech industry and the public alike, as it could set a precedent for how AI is developed, used, and regulated in the future.