Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
| Tracking # |
23-031 |
| Multi Request | Deepfake Technology |
| Submitted | May 6, 2023 |
| Est. Completion | Nov. 3, 2023 |
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Communications
From: George Johnston
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
-
~WRD000
From: George Johnston
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
-
~WRD000
From: George Johnston
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
-
~WRD000
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
-
~WRD000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
-
~WRD0001
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
-
~WRD0000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Please see the correspondence below dated August 9, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, September 8, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
September 8, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
-
~WRD0000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
-
~WRD0001
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to let you know that I am still interested in the following documents, and to see if that date was still accurate. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
-
~WRD0000
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
The records for this request will be produced on a rolling basis. The first interim production is scheduled for Friday of this week.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Thursday, October 12, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 12, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to let you know that I am still interested in the following documents, and to see if that date was still accurate. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
-
~WRD0000
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
-
~WRD0005
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:37 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:52 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:37 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:53 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:52 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:37 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
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PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:54 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:53 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:52 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:37 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
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E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Dear George,
Please confirm receipt of records totaling 1188 pages.
Thanks!
Ayi
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 12:05 PM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:56 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:54 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:53 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:52 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:37 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
-
image001
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:56 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:54 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:53 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:52 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:37 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
-
image001
From: George Johnston
This is completely redacted. This is no use. Please unredact this.
From: Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
Drear George,
Thank you for the follow up. However, the redacted contents are deliberative. Thus, subject to the specified withholding(s). The non-deliberative contents were released as part of the production.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com <requests@muckrock.com>
Sent: Monday, February 5, 2024 4:07 PM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
February 5, 2024
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
This is completely redacted. This is no use. Please unredact this.
View request history, see one related attachment, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Attachments:
• 2023.10.30 RELEASE 23-031_Interim Prod_pages 1101-1188
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Nov. 3, 2023:
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:56 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:54 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:53 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:52 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:37 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:35 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:33 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:31 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:29 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:28 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: RE: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 11:23 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>; 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Subject: OSTP FOIA Request #23-031
Dear George,
The interim production letter and the first 100 of 1188 pages are attached. The records will be sent through multiple emails due to file size restrictions. We apologize in advance for the inconvenience.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Sent: Wednesday, November 1, 2023 9:55 AM
To: 'requests@muckrock.com' <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>; MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The interim production is tentatively for this Friday.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Sent: Monday, October 30, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 30, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 27, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Oct. 13, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. The records for the request are still being processed. The estimated production date is October 27, 2023.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Sent: Friday, October 13, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
October 13, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on Oct. 13, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Sept. 27, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Barring any unforeseen circumstance, the production for this request is scheduled for October 13, 2023.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Sent: Thursday, August 24, 2023 1:01 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 24, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On Aug. 9, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for contacting us. As indicated below, we process FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There are over 100 requests that were received ahead of the instant one and have limited staff to process them. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Sent: Wednesday, August 9, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
August 9, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov%3cmailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com%3cmailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
George Johnston
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
[Image removed by sender.]
---
On July 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Dear George,
Thank you for the inquiry. Pursuant to regulation, OSTP processes FOIA requests on a first-in, first-out basis. There were over 150 requests that were received ahead of the instant one. Those requests are currently being processed. Thus, the estimated processing time frame for this request is 2 to 3 months. If there is any new development, we will contact you.
We sincerely apologize for the delay and working diligently to process all pending requests.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Friday, July 7, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request #23-031
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
July 7, 2023
This is a follow up to request number 23-031:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response. You had assigned it reference number #23-031.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On June 7, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
The acknowledgment letter regarding this request is attached.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 31, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Good morning George,
The request was perfected on May 10, 2023 when we received the amended submission. Thus, we have until June 7, 2023 within which to respond. A request is considered “received” only after it has been perfected. We then have 20 business days within which to respond.
Thank you.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA.
From: requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com> <requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>>
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:00 AM
To: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Cc: MBX OSTP FOIA <OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov<mailto:OSTPFOIA@ostp.eop.gov>>
Subject: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House
FOIA Office
1650 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20504
May 31, 2023
This is a follow up to a previous request:
To Whom It May Concern:
I wanted to follow up on the following DC Freedom of Information Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on May 8, 2023. Please let me know when I can expect to receive a response.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
View request history, upload responsive documents, and report problems here:
>>>>>>https://www.muckrock.com/
If prompted for a passcode, please enter:
••••••••
Filed via MuckRock.com
E-mail (Preferred): requests@muckrock.com<mailto:requests@muckrock.com>
PLEASE NOTE OUR NEW ADDRESS
For mailed responses, please address (see note):
MuckRock News
DEPT MR 145414
263 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
PLEASE NOTE: This request is not filed by a MuckRock staff member, but is being sent through MuckRock by the above in order to better track, share, and manage public records requests. Also note that improperly addressed (i.e., with the requester's name rather than "MuckRock News" and the department number) requests might be returned as undeliverable.
---
On May 10, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Hello,
I seek any and all references to deep fake, deep fakes disruptive technology from the email account and government smartphone numbers of Arati Prabhakar, Alexander Macgillivray, and Denice Ross. I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
We will process the request for
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
The second part of your request, which is highlighted above, is overly broad as previously noted in the initial correspondence and under longstanding FOIA precedents, “broad sweeping requests lacking specificity are not permissible.” Marks v. United States (Dep’t of Justice), 578 F.2d 261, 263 (9 Cir. 1978), see also, (“Request is too broad which seeks ‘all unpublished manuscripts decisions of the Patent Office, together with such indices as are available.” Irons v. Schuyler, 151 U.S App. D.C 23(1972)). Thus, it is impermissible.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
I amend to 20 January 2021 until the date of the processing of this request.
All communications to or from the OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase 'deep fake,' 'deep fake technology.' In addition, I seek any official documents that include 'deep fake' or references to 'deep fakes.'
---
On May 8, 2023:
Subject: RE: [EXTERNAL] DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
Dear George,
Thank you for the submission to the Office of Science and Technology Policy (hereafter “OSTP”). However, there are a few issues with the request:
First, documents from prior administrations are maintained at the National Archives and Records Administration. So, the date range would have to be modified to cover the first day of the current administration through the search date.
Second, the request, as written, is overly broad. OSTP’s regulation specifically states that a:
“request must describe the records sought in sufficient detail to enable OSTP personnel to locate the records with a reasonable amount of effort. To the extent possible, a requester should include specific information that may assist OSTP personnel in identifying the requested records, such as the date, title or name, author, recipient, and subject matter of the record.” See, 32 C.F.R.§2402.4(b).
A request for broad terms such as “deepfakes” and “deep fake” does not satisfy these requirements. Those terms as well as others specified in the request are susceptible to false positive results that could potentially yield voluminous non responsive records. Such a search would be unduly burdensome because of the time and resources required to review the voluminous non-responsive records. Thus, the request needs to be amended.
Please provide the names of the individuals or organizations that might have sent or received the correspondences of interest. For instance, the request could be amended to seek:
* All communications to or from OSTP director between January 2021 through the search date that contains the term or phrase deep fake technology during combat.
There are other ways to amend the request, but the example above would satisfy the requirements of the FOIA and OSTP’s regulation.
Third, the FOIA requires our agency to respond within 20 business days, not 15 days.
Last, this FOIA inbox is exclusively for the Office of Science and Technology Policy, not the White House Office (henceforth “WHO”). The latter is a separate component of the Executive Office of the President (henceforth “EOP”). OSTP does not accept or process FOIA requests for the other EOP components. So please ensure that this request is specifically for OSTP.
Please let us know how you would like to proceed.
Regards,
OSTP FOIA Team.
---
On May 6, 2023:
Subject: DC Freedom of Information Act Request: Deepfake Technology (Office Of Science And Technology Policy, The White House)
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the DC Freedom of Information Act, I hereby request the following records:
I am looking for documents on the impact of deep fake technology during combat operations. This can be an email or any type of file relevant to deep fake technology.
Date: 01 January 2020 until the date of this processing. Keywords CAN include disruptive technology, deepfakes, and deep fake.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 15 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,