Furthermore, the report reveals the rise of private "AI for hire" companies that create AI-generated propaganda, such as AI-generated newscasters, to spread misinformation. It also notes an alarming trend of political actors labeling genuine videos and audio as deepfakes to dismiss damaging content. The Freedom House report warns that while most political manipulation still relies on lower tech methods, the increasing sophistication and affordability of AI tools could change this. It calls for democratic states to regulate AI more effectively to ensure transparency, oversight, and the protection of human rights.
Key takeaways:
- Political leaders, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan of Pakistan and former President Donald Trump, are increasingly using AI deepfakes for political gain, according to a report from Freedom House.
- At least 22 of the 70 countries analyzed in the report have legal frameworks that mandate social media companies to use AI to remove disfavored political, social, and religious speech, which goes beyond standard content moderation policies.
- State actors are also reportedly turning to private “AI for hire” companies to create AI-generated propaganda, including AI-generated newscasters.
- The Freedom House report also shows a rise in political actors falsely claiming genuine videos and audio are deepfakes, which can undermine public trust in the democratic process.