Developing Consent Technology for Safe Online Interactions: How a University of Michigan-Flint Professor is Leading the Way with AI and VR

University of Michigan-Flint professor Douglas Zytko has received a $567,968 grant from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) to develop technology that promotes safe online interactions. This technology, known as “consent technology,” aims to prevent sexual harm that may occur during face-to-face interactions between individuals who have met online.

Zytko believes that many cases of sexual violence involve misinterpretations of signals received online before in-person meetings. He is concerned about sexual violence happening without conscious intent and wants to develop a visual guide for individuals to reduce misunderstandings and maintain consent during interactions. The grant will help protect young people and other vulnerable populations who are at risk of exploitation on social media and other online platforms.

The NSF’s Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program supports Zytko’s research and grant, aiming to empower early-career faculty members to become leaders and innovators in education and research. Congressman Dan Kildee endorsed the grant on June 17, 2024, recognizing its potential to make a positive impact on society.

Zytko is exploring the use of Virtual Reality (VR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to create this visual guide for individuals. He envisions AI companions that can detect non-consensual behavior based on biometric signals and convey that information to the other person through augmented reality glasses. With this technology, individuals will be able to maintain clear communication about their boundaries and preferences during online interactions, reducing the risk of harm or exploitation.