Defense News

India

A recent report by Microsoft has shed light on China's use of artificial intelligence (AI) to interfere in upcoming elections, including those in India, the United States, and South Korea. The report, titled ‘Same targets, new playbooks: East Asia threat actors employ unique methods,’ highlights China's efforts to create and distribute AI-generated content via social media platforms to sway election outcomes in their favor.

According to Microsoft, China is expected to deploy AI-generated content that aligns with its interests in these high-profile elections. While the immediate impact of such content on election results is deemed low, Microsoft warns that China's increasing experimentation with AI-augmented memes, videos, and audio could prove more effective in the future.

The report also notes China's previous attempt to influence the Taiwan presidential election using AI-generated disinformation, marking the first instance of a state-backed entity employing such tactics in a foreign election. Microsoft cautions that China's targets may extend beyond Taiwan, with observed trends indicating a focus on sophisticated influence techniques aimed at achieving strategic goals.

Chinese cyber actors have targeted various entities related to China's economic and military interests, particularly in the South China Sea region. Microsoft identifies three primary target areas, including the South Pacific Islands, South China Sea adversaries, and the US defence industrial base. Additionally, a Chinese cyber actor known as Flax Typhoon has targeted entities involved in US-Philippines military exercises and expanded its operations to include the Philippines, Hong Kong, India, and the United States.

The report underscores China's continued efforts to refine AI-generated or AI-enhanced content to support its strategic narratives. This includes both amplifying existing AI-generated media and creating original video, memes, and audio content to influence public opinion.

In response to these threats, Microsoft emphasizes the importance of vigilance and enhanced cybersecurity measures, particularly for government, telecommunications, and military entities in affected regions. As China's tactics evolve, proactive measures will be essential to safeguarding the integrity of democratic processes and preventing undue foreign influence in elections.