US Officials Warn Of Foreign AI Disinformation Threat In Elections

Avril Haines, director of National Intelligence, speaks during the open portion of a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee on Capitol Hill, Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Washington. (AP Photo/Mar

Top security officials have alerted the Senate about the potential for foreign adversaries to once again attempt to influence the upcoming U.S. elections. These adversaries are utilizing the latest advancements in artificial intelligence to disseminate online disinformation, deceive voters, and undermine trust in democracy.

Since the 2016 election, where Russia sought to sway the outcome, the U.S. has significantly enhanced its ability to protect election security and detect and combat foreign disinformation campaigns. Despite these improvements, the use of AI has made it easier and more cost-effective to create realistic images, videos, and audio that can deceive even the most discerning voter.

Russia, China, and Iran are identified as the primary actors seeking to interfere with the 2024 election. Russia, in particular, continues to be the most active foreign threat, using state media and online influencers to erode trust in democratic institutions and U.S. support for Ukraine.

Russia, China, and Iran identified as primary actors seeking to interfere in 2024 election.

Foreign adversaries using AI to spread disinformation and undermine trust in democracy.

Russia remains most active threat, targeting U.S. democratic institutions and Ukraine support.

China refrained from directly influencing the 2020 presidential election due to concerns about potential repercussions. However, security officials remain vigilant about monitoring China's activities, especially given its ties to platforms like TikTok.

Iran has been using social media platforms to issue threats and sow confusion among voters. In 2020, U.S. officials accused Tehran of distributing false content and sending intimidating emails to Democratic voters in battleground states.

The hearing also addressed the risk of adversaries hacking into state or local election systems to alter votes or cast doubt on the election's integrity. The federal government, in collaboration with state and local officials, has taken extensive measures to ensure that the 2024 election will be the most secure to date.

Despite these efforts, concerns remain about the spread of fake AI-generated videos about candidates before the election. Officials are considering the best approach to address such disinformation and maintain the integrity of the electoral process.

Overall, the U.S. remains vigilant against foreign interference and is committed to safeguarding the democratic principles that underpin the electoral system.