DuckDuckGo has taken action to prevent AI-generated images from flooding its search results. The company has launched a new feature that filters AI-generated images to allow users to more easily access real photos. This step is noteworthy because there is no similar feature yet offered by major search engines.
AI-generated images can be hidden from search results
The rapid proliferation of AI-powered images online has become a serious problem, especially for users seeking information and real images. Search engine image searches are increasingly filled with fake or fictional content. DuckDuckGo’s new filter directly addresses this issue. Users will now be able to access only real images, eliminating the need to view AI-generated images in search results.
The filtering system is based on several open-source blocklists. This feature, based on uBlockOrigin’s “nuclear” list and uBlacklist’s “Huge AI Blocklist,” does not eliminate all AI-generated images in its current form, but it does provide a significant reduction. DuckDuckGo developers state that they are working to further develop this feature. This initial phase of development is planned to become more effective over time.
The filtering offered by DuckDuckGo operates directly within the search engine, without requiring the user to install any add-ons. Previously, this type of filtering was only possible through external browser extensions. Now, users who want to avoid this type of content can enjoy a simplified search experience directly on DuckDuckGo.
Known for its privacy-focused approach, DuckDuckGo is transforming itself into a platform that not only protects user data but also takes steps against disinformation. The company’s move is a concrete example of search engines beginning to take responsibility for the increasing volume of artificial intelligence content.
