Defining the Legal Status of an Individual’s Digital Twin (Surrogate)

Abstract

With the rapid expansion of the internet, the extensive digitalization of all aspects of modern society, and the accelerated adoption of artificial intelligence technologies, the concept of digital twins has become increasingly relevant. However, modern legal science still needs to bridge the gap in regulating digital twins and establish clear approaches to their use. In this article, the legal status of digital twins, a concept new to Russian law, was examined. The potential impact of digital twins on legal relations was estimated. The major legal problems and risks resulting from the use of digital twins of humans were identified and discussed. It was proposed to legally define the concept of a digital twin (surrogate) and digital human rights, set legal boundaries for the actions of an AI-driven digital twin, adjust access levels for various services, delineate the legal implications of actions taken by digital twins in virtual environments, and outline clear and effective methods to protect digital twins.

Keywords

• digitalization
• digital twin
• digital surrogate
• artificial intelligence
• legal status
• legal regulation
• personal data
• human rights