The proof-of-concept technology removes a layer of digital “poison” meant to disrupt AI models that scrape online images for training.

Technology Review, published by MIT, is a leading source of news, analysis, and commentary on emerging technologies, scientific advancements, and their societal impacts. Covering topics such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, renewable energy, and more, Technology Review provides  reporting and  articles on the intersection of technology and society. Readers can stay informed about the latest breakthroughs and trends shaping the future of technology.

MIT Technology Review

Researchers have developed LightShed, a technique that can remove anti-AI protections from digital artwork, effectively countering tools like Glaze and Nightshade that artists use to prevent their work from being scraped for AI training. The tool learns to identify and remove digital 'poison' that these protective measures add to images, making artwork vulnerable to AI training again. While the researchers aim to highlight security vulnerabilities rather than enable theft, this development represents another round in the ongoing battle between artists protecting their work and AI companies seeking training data. The creators of original protection tools acknowledge this cat-and-mouse dynamic and view their defenses as deterrents rather than permanent solutions.

This tool strips away anti-AI protections from digital art