We asked our readers whether they think laws are needed to stop robots and computers from lying, and the results are decidedly mixed.

Would it ever be acceptable for a robot or a computer program to deliberately deceive a human being?

That’s the question posed in this article, and it was the subject of a recently concluded IEET reader poll. But the answers we received were anything but conclusive.

Just over 1/4 of respondents said, yes, making a law like that would be a good idea. Slightly more, about 31%, said that while it might be a good idea, good luck in trying to enforce it.

Of those opposing the concept, 21% said it’s a bad idea because there could be cases where computer or robot dishonesty would be useful, and 15% are simply opposed to more regulations, period. Finally, 7% can’t make up their mind.

Do we need a law making it illegal for computers and robots to deceive or be dishonest?