Full Disclosure: Microsoft didn’t really name Biden when they warned of AI being used to manipulate the outcome of the Presidential election in the US, but do you really think the Chinese would want a strong candidate like Trump to win or a sock-puppet like Joe Biden? — GDM
—
AI Alert
Microsoft has sounded the alarm over the possibility that artificial intelligence might be exploited by cyber groups with links to the Chinese government to interfere in crucial elections across the United States, South Korea, and India. This alert comes in the wake of what is perceived as a preliminary attempt to manipulate the presidential elections in Taiwan, where AI-crafted materials were used to deter voters from supporting a candidate with pro-independence leanings.
The corporation’s cyber threat analysis division released insights indicating that along with Chinese digital operatives, factions associated with North Korea could also take part in similar schemes aimed at affecting the outcomes of these significant international elections. The main tactic the bad actors may use involves generating and spreading AI-crafted materials on various social media platforms to advance China’s geopolitical aims in these nations.
According to Microsoft, China’s venture into employing AI for political ends isn’t groundbreaking. In the lead-up to Taiwan‘s last presidential vote, a group operating under Beijing’s control, known as Storm 1376 and alternatively referred to as Spamouflage or Dragonbridge, took center stage. This outfit tried to tilt the electoral scales by circulating artificial audio clips and AI-created memes disparaging William Lai, the candidate advocating for national independence. Lai eventually won the election. Their efforts featured baseless charges against Lai and used AI-generated news presenters to disseminate false information.
Past Practice Using YouTube
Microsoft pinpointed a particular incident involving a fraudulent audio clip on YouTube, falsely claiming to feature Terry Gou, another electoral contender, endorsing a rival candidate, presumably crafted using AI tools. Although YouTube quickly took the clip down, its emergence underscores a pivotal instance of AI-manufactured content being utilized to attempt to manipulate the outcome of an international election.
Additionally, Microsoft’s study discusses the persistent efforts by the Chinese to shape opinions within the United States, noting instances where Beijing-aligned social media profiles have engaged in stirring debates to pinpoint polarizing topics among American voters. This approach might be part of a broader scheme to polish China’s misinformation operations in preparation for the upcoming US presidential election.
Full Disclosure: Microsoft didn’t really name Biden when they warned of AI being used to manipulate the outcome of the Presidential election in the US, but do you really think the Chinese would want a strong candidate like Trump to win or a sock-puppet like Joe Biden? — GDM
—
AI Alert
Microsoft has sounded the alarm over the possibility that artificial intelligence might be exploited by cyber groups with links to the Chinese government to interfere in crucial elections across the United States, South Korea, and India. This alert comes in the wake of what is perceived as a preliminary attempt to manipulate the presidential elections in Taiwan, where AI-crafted materials were used to deter voters from supporting a candidate with pro-independence leanings.
The corporation’s cyber threat analysis division released insights indicating that along with Chinese digital operatives, factions associated with North Korea could also take part in similar schemes aimed at affecting the outcomes of these significant international elections. The main tactic the bad actors may use involves generating and spreading AI-crafted materials on various social media platforms to advance China’s geopolitical aims in these nations.
According to Microsoft, China’s venture into employing AI for political ends isn’t groundbreaking. In the lead-up to Taiwan‘s last presidential vote, a group operating under Beijing’s control, known as Storm 1376 and alternatively referred to as Spamouflage or Dragonbridge, took center stage. This outfit tried to tilt the electoral scales by circulating artificial audio clips and AI-created memes disparaging William Lai, the candidate advocating for national independence. Lai eventually won the election. Their efforts featured baseless charges against Lai and used AI-generated news presenters to disseminate false information.
Past Practice Using YouTube
Microsoft pinpointed a particular incident involving a fraudulent audio clip on YouTube, falsely claiming to feature Terry Gou, another electoral contender, endorsing a rival candidate, presumably crafted using AI tools. Although YouTube quickly took the clip down, its emergence underscores a pivotal instance of AI-manufactured content being utilized to attempt to manipulate the outcome of an international election.
Additionally, Microsoft’s study discusses the persistent efforts by the Chinese to shape opinions within the United States, noting instances where Beijing-aligned social media profiles have engaged in stirring debates to pinpoint polarizing topics among American voters. This approach might be part of a broader scheme to polish China’s misinformation operations in preparation for the upcoming US presidential election.
Despite Microsoft’s current standing that AI-generated content has yet to sway public opinion significantly, the company cautions about the future potential of such strategies to become more impactful as China further hones its techniques.
I’ll bet you ten bucks that TikTok is somehow at the heart of all of it.
As someone who’s seen what happens when the truth is distorted, I know how unfair it feels when those who’ve sacrificed the most lose their voice. At SOFREP, our veteran journalists, who once fought for freedom, now fight to bring you unfiltered, real-world intel. But without your support, we risk losing this vital source of truth. By subscribing, you’re not just leveling the playing field—you’re standing with those who’ve already given so much, ensuring they continue to serve by delivering stories that matter. Every subscription means we can hire more veterans and keep their hard-earned knowledge in the fight. Don’t let their voices be silenced. Please consider subscribing now.
One team, one fight,
Brandon Webb former Navy SEAL, Bestselling Author and Editor-in-Chief
Barrett is the world leader in long-range, large-caliber, precision rifle design and manufacturing. Barrett products are used by civilians, sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and more than 75 State Department-approved countries around the world.
PO Box 1077 MURFREESBORO, Tennessee 37133 United States
Scrubba Wash Bag
Our ultra-portable washing machine makes your journey easier. This convenient, pocket-sized travel companion allows you to travel lighter while helping you save money, time and water.
Our roots in shooting sports started off back in 1996 with our founder and CEO, Josh Ungier. His love of airguns took hold of our company from day one and we became the first e-commerce retailer dedicated to airguns, optics, ammo, and accessories. Over the next 25 years, customers turned to us for our unmatched product selection, great advice, education, and continued support of the sport and airgun industry.
COMMENTS
There are
You must become a subscriber or login to view or post comments on this article.