Researchers from Microsoft announced on Thursday that they have discovered a network of fake social media accounts believed to be controlled by China, aiming to influence American voters through the use of artificial intelligence. In a new research report, Microsoft stated that these social media accounts were part of a suspected Chinese propaganda campaign.
In response to these allegations, the Chinese embassy in Washington dismissed them as biased and malicious speculations, calling for the safe and responsible use of artificial intelligence.
This report highlights growing tensions on social media as Americans prepare for the 2024 presidential elections. The U.S. government previously accused Russia of interfering in the 2016 elections through a covert social media campaign and has warned of similar efforts by China, Russia, and Iran to influence American voters.
It’s worth noting that the report did not provide specific details on how researchers tracked these fake accounts or how they attributed the posts to China. A spokesperson for Microsoft explained that researchers used a complex analytical model relying on technical, behavioral, and contextual evidence. The company also noted that this campaign began using generative AI technology in approximately March 2023 to create political content in English and simulate American voters.