Microsoft Exposes Chinese AI Scheme To Influence Elections

Microsoft has issued a cautionary statement indicating that China is preparing to interfere in the forthcoming elections in India, the United States, and South Korea utilizing AI-generated content. This alert follows China's utilization of artificial intelligence during a trial period in Taiwan's presidential election to sway the results.

Microsoft Threat Analysis Center’s latest report notes that China is using fake social media accounts to poll U.S. voters on what divides them most to sow division and possibly influence the outcome of the U.S. presidential election in its favor. https://t.co/ZwAxPOTgLV
— Microsoft Threat Intelligence (@MsftSecIntel) April 5, 2024

Microsoft's threat intelligence team has identified Chinese state-backed cyber groups, potentially with involvement from North Korea, as expected perpetrators, with elections scheduled in at least 64 countries, collectively representing almost half of the global population.

During these crucial elections, particularly in India, South Korea, and the United States, China is expected to utilize AI-generated content disseminated through social media platforms to influence public opinion in their favor.

The rise of political advertisements utilizing AI technology, such as 'deepfakes' or fabricated events, poses a substantial threat to election integrity. These tactics aim to mislead the public about candidates' statements, positions, and the authenticity of events, potentially eroding voters' capacity to make well-informed decisions.

Although the immediate impact of AI-generated content may currently seem limited, Microsoft cautions that China's ongoing experimentation with this technology could lead to increasingly effective manipulation tactics over time.

Also Read: US On High Alert, Preparing For Potential Retaliatory Iranian Attack On Israel: Reports

While the immediate impact of AI-generated content might appear minimal, Microsoft warns that China's continuous experimentation with this technology could result in more effective manipulation tactics over time.

Artificial intelligence has been utilized in US political campaigns for some time, although there's limited evidence suggesting significant impact on public opinion. In the lead-up to the 2024 New Hampshire Democratic primary, an AI-generated phone call resembling President Joe Biden's voice advised voters not to participate in the polling. While there's no concrete evidence implicating China, this incident underscores the potential threat AI poses to democratic norms.

Ahead of the general elections scheduled to begin on April 19 in India, the Election Commission has released guidelines and protocols aimed at swiftly addressing false information and misinformation. Representatives from OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, recently met with the Election Commission to propose measures to prevent the misuse of AI during the upcoming elections.

Also Read: Amid War, First Batch Of Indian Workers Left For Israel; The Salary Will Blow Your Mind