Deceptive Terms
Language or phrases used by AI that falsely imply it is a licensed human healthcare professional.
How the laws define this
Both provisions regarding AB 489 agree that deceptive terms encompass any words, letters, or phrases used by artificial intelligence that indicate, imply, or suggest the system is a natural person holding a health care license or certificate. Both entries share a common core focused on preventing language that misleads the public into believing health care advice or care originates from a licensed human practitioner. The primary distinction between the two entries for AB 489 lies in their specific operational scope and examples. The first entry highlights language deployed across AI advertising or functionality that misleads users about the source of care or advice. The second entry explicitly expands the technological scope to include Generative Artificial Intelligence systems and lists specific deceptive titles, such as Doctor, M.D., or Registered Nurse, to illustrate language that wrongly implies an AI possesses a health care license.
Synthesised from the 2 statutory definitions below. Each one is quoted in full, with its source.
What it triggers
Definitions (2)
As per AB 489, deceptive terms are any words, letters, or phrases used in AI advertising or functionality that suggest the AI is a natural person holding a health care license or certificate, thereby misleading the public about the source of care or advice.
In the context of AB 489, "deceptive terms" refers to any words, letters, or phrases used by Artificial Intelligence or Generative Artificial Intelligence systems that indicate or imply the AI possesses a license or certificate to practice a health care profession. This includes titles like "Doctor," "M.D.," or "Registered Nurse," and any language suggesting that advice is from a licensed human.
Questions and answers
What are deceptive terms under California law?
Deceptive terms are words, letters, or phrases used by AI that suggest it is a licensed health care professional. This includes titles like 'Doctor,' 'M.D.,' or 'Registered Nurse.' They mislead the public about the source of care or advice.
Is using 'doctor' in AI health advice allowed in California?
No, using 'doctor' or similar terms is prohibited if it implies the AI is a licensed human professional. California AB 489 bans such deceptive use to ensure transparency.