Chinese actors have reportedly used artificial intelligence (AI) to manipulate videos and disseminate disinformation during Taiwan’s national elections, potentially posing a risk for the upcoming U.S. 2024 elections.
What Happened: Taiwanese groups disclosed on Monday that Chinese actors had launched a significant disinformation campaign during Taiwan’s national elections, which concluded in January, reported The Hill.
The campaign involved AI’s use to manipulate videos and create discord, including altering the words of at least one U.S. member of Congress.
The disinformation narratives primarily targeted the U.S., falsely accusing Washington of constructing biological labs in Taiwan and instigating the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza. The narratives also sought to manipulate public opinion during the U.S. presidential elections this year.
Microsoft Corp. (NASDAQ:MSFT) published a report this month suggesting that China is employing similar tactics in the U.S.
"We are prepared to see influence actors interact with Americans for engagement and to potentially research perspectives on U.S. politics," Microsoft warned in the report. "China will, at a minimum, create and amplify AI-generated content that benefits their positions in these high-profile elections."
Chinese government-associated accounts have posted about presidential candidates in the U.S. elections, with one of the most active Chinese actors spreading ...