The Evolving Threat of AI in Election Interference

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an increasingly concerning tool in the realm of election interference. In recent years, countries like Russia, China, and Iran have utilized social media platforms to influence foreign elections. However, with the introduction of generative AI and large language models, the landscape of disinformation campaigns is set to evolve even further.

Generative AI and large language models, such as ChatGPT and GPT-4, have the ability to produce endless amounts of text on any topic and from any perspective. This makes them ideal tools for internet-era propaganda. While it remains unclear how these technologies will impact disinformation campaigns, their potential effectiveness is a cause for concern.

As election season approaches in numerous democratic countries, the threat of foreign interference looms large. Major players like China and Russia have vested interests in influencing the outcomes of elections in countries like Taiwan, Indonesia, India, and African nations. Additionally, the United States remains a prime target for foreign interference.

With the development of tools like ChatGPT, the cost of producing and distributing propaganda has significantly decreased. This means that more countries, including non-state actors, can engage in disinformation campaigns. The reduced cost has led cybersecurity agencies to anticipate the emergence of “domestic actors” in future election interference efforts.

While content generation plays a crucial role in disinformation campaigns, distribution is equally important. Companies like Meta have become more adept at identifying and removing fake accounts, but propaganda outlets have shifted to messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp, making it harder to monitor their activities. Platforms like TikTok, controlled by China, are also being utilized for the production and dissemination of AI-generated short videos.

Generative AI tools have also opened up new avenues for production and distribution, including low-level propaganda at scale. The concept of persona bots, AI-powered personal accounts that behave like normal users until they occasionally make political statements or amplify political content, poses a significant challenge in combating disinformation.

As the tactics of election interference become more sophisticated, it becomes crucial to identify and catalog them. Researchers in the computer security realm understand the importance of sharing attack methods and effectiveness to build strong defense systems. The same approach applies to countering disinformation campaigns. By studying and recognizing the techniques employed in foreign information operations, countries can better defend their own democratic processes.

Sources:
– The Conversation (source)
– Author’s expertise