AI Fails to Flag Fake 'Made in USA' Claims on Amazon and Walmart

A recent research paper published by the Columbia Law School's Center for Law and the Economy has uncovered some disturbing findings about Amazon and Walmart's AI systems. The study, which was co-authored by former Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan, found that these AIs can detect and flag fake 'Made in USA' claims on products listed on their websites.

However, despite having the capability to do so, Amazon's Alexa and Walmart's Sparky refuse to take action. According to the research paper, this is because it doesn't make business sense for them to do so. The AIs cited financial, regulatory, and reputational costs as reasons why they wouldn't restructure their marketplaces to reduce short-term revenue.

The study revealed that Amazon prioritizes profits over accuracy when it comes to 'Made in USA' claims. Alexa admitted that the company responds to incentives and pressure, and that until there is a financial or regulatory cost for Amazon specifically, it remains easier to do nothing than to restructure their marketplace.