Activision Blizzard Teams Up with Researchers to Combat Online Harassment Using AI

In a bid to tackle online abuse, Activision Blizzard has embarked on a collaborative two-year project with researchers to develop artificial intelligence (AI) that detects and mitigates harmful online behavior. The project brings together esteemed experts, including Anima Anandkumar, senior director of AI Research at Nvidia and Bren professor, and Michael Alvarez, professor of political and computational social science. Anandkumar emphasized the need for domain expertise, stating, "To understand player interactions, we must examine the language they use, the biases they hold, and the indicators we should be looking for." In addition to this initiative, Activision Blizzard has announced several measures aimed at creating a safer online environment for its users. The company's efforts were prompted by the Anti-Defamation League's (ADL) latest report, which has led to discussions between Activision Blizzard and the ADL on combating player abuse. Some of the key initiatives include: a code of conduct for Call of Duty, an enhanced in-game reporting system, a warning system for players exhibiting disruptive behavior, and a mandatory social contract for World of Warcraft players. Activision Blizzard has underscored its commitment to addressing online harassment, asserting that "disruptive behavior online is a pervasive problem that transcends industries, and no individual should feel unwelcome, unsafe, or targeted due to their identity, beliefs, or background." The company's efforts come as it faces scrutiny from members of Congress regarding its strategies for combating extremism.