Aug 16 (Reuters) – OpenAI said on Friday it had taken down accounts of an Iranian group for using its ChatGPT chatbot to generate content meant for influencing the U.S. presidential election and other issues.
In a significant move to prevent foreign interference in the upcoming US elections, OpenAI has blocked the ChatGPT accounts of an Iranian group accused of using the AI tool to spread misinformation and influence American voters.
The Iranian Group’s Tactics
The Iranian group, which has not been named, was found to be using ChatGPT to generate content that mimicked the tone and style of legitimate news sources. The content was then spread across social media platforms, with the intention of swaying public opinion and influencing the outcome of the US elections.
OpenAI’s Response
Upon discovering the Iranian group’s activities, OpenAI took swift action to block their ChatGPT accounts and prevent further misuse of the platform. OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, stated that the company is committed to preventing the use of its technology for malicious purposes, including foreign interference in elections.
The Broader Implications
This incident highlights the growing concern of foreign interference in elections through the use of AI and social media. As AI technology becomes increasingly sophisticated, it is becoming easier for malicious actors to use it to spread misinformation and influence public opinion.
The operation, identified as Storm-2035, used ChatGPT to generate content focused on topics such as commentary on the candidates on both sides in the U.S. elections, the conflict in Gaza and Israel’s presence at the Olympic Games and then shared it via social media accounts and websites.
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Investigation by the Microsoft-backed (MSFT.O)
AI company showed that ChatGPT was used for generating long-form articles and shorter social media comments.
OpenAI said the operation did not appear to have achieved meaningful audience engagement.
Majority of the identified social media posts received few or no likes, shares or comments and the company did not see indications of web articles being shared across social media.
The Need for Vigilance
The blocking of the Iranian group’s ChatGPT accounts serves as a reminder of the need for vigilance in preventing foreign interference in elections. Social media companies, AI developers, and governments must work together to prevent the misuse of technology and protect the integrity of democratic processes.
Conclusion
OpenAI’s swift action in blocking the Iranian group’s ChatGPT accounts demonstrates the company’s commitment to preventing the misuse of its technology. As AI continues to evolve, it is essential that we remain vigilant in preventing its use for malicious purposes, particularly in the context of elections.
