Politics
The Threat of Deepfakes in the 2024 Elections
As the 2024 elections approach, a growing concern is the use of deepfakes to influence the outcome. Deepfakes are AI-generated media, such as videos, audio, or images, that appear realistic but are fabricated. This technology has advanced significantly, making it easier to create convincing deepfakes.
Recent Incidents
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In January 2024, a deepfake robocall using President Biden’s voice attempted to discourage New Hampshire voters from participating in the primary election.
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In 2023, deepfake technology was used to clone a Chicago mayoral candidate’s voice on a fake news outlet on Twitter.
Increasing Sophistication and Accessibility
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AI tools for creating synthetic media have gone mainstream, allowing for the imitation of real people’s voices and appearances.
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The technology to create convincing deepfakes has advanced, making it easier, faster, and more affordable to produce realistic fake media.
Potential Threats
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Deepfakes can be used to spread false information about candidates, manipulate political landscapes, and undermine trust in electoral processes.
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They can be employed for personalized targeting, such as providing false information about polling places to specific voters.
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AI-generated content can be used to create false “evidence” of candidate misconduct, fake videos of election workers destroying ballots, or phony emails directing voters to incorrect polling locations.
Global Concern
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Experts observe a global uptick in electoral deepfakes, with the World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report warning of the potential for unrest, including violent protests, hate crimes, civil confrontation, and terrorism.
Regulatory Responses
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Lawmakers in 27 states introduced bills to regulate deepfakes in elections within the first six weeks of 2023.
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The FCC has ruled that robocalls using AI-generated voices are now illegal under federal telecoms law.
Tech Company Actions
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Companies like Meta, YouTube, and TikTok now require users to disclose when they post AI content.
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Google and Microsoft have announced measures to protect electoral processes from deepfakes.
Challenges in Combating Deepfakes
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The difficulty in quickly investigating and debunking deepfakes poses a significant challenge, especially in the critical period leading up to an election.
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The cost of production and dissemination of deepfakes is minimal, and they can be spread virally with minimal effort.
Potential Impact on Voter Behavior
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While deepfakes are concerning, some experts suggest that their impact may be limited due to hardened partisan loyalties and the return to pre-COVID social connections.
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However, in close elections, even a small number of people believing false information could potentially affect the outcome.
Broader Implications
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Deepfakes are not just a political issue; they have been used for harassment and abuse, particularly targeting women and potentially limiting their political participation.
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The threat of deepfakes extends beyond elections, potentially undermining trust in media and institutions more broadly.
As we approach the 2024 elections, it is essential to be aware of the potential threats and challenges posed by deepfakes. While their impact is uncertain, it is crucial to take measures to combat their spread and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

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