As the upcoming election approaches, voters are increasingly becoming targets of sophisticated AI scams designed to provide misinformation to influence the election results.
Deepfake videos, which use artificial intelligence to create hyper-realistic but entirely fake footage, and AI-powered robocalls, which use advanced speech synthesis to deliver convincing but fraudulent messages, are among the tactics being used to sway public opinion and disrupt the democratic process.
These AI-driven threats can spread misinformation rapidly and convincingly, making it imperative for voters to stay aware and informed.
Deepfake Videos
Deepfake technology has advanced significantly, allowing the creation of highly realistic videos that can be used to deceive viewers. In the context of elections, deepfake videos can be employed to manipulate public opinion by depicting political figures saying or doing things they never did.
These fabricated videos can spread misinformation rapidly, potentially swaying voters based on falsehoods. The high quality of these deepfakes makes it difficult for the average viewer to discern their authenticity, posing a significant threat to the integrity of democratic processes.
AI-Powered Phishing Scams
An AI phishing scam is a type of social engineering fraud where criminals pose as a legitimate person or institution, such as a politician or political committee, to try to obtain sensitive information such as soliciting financial information in fraudulent donation requests or spreading false information.
Scammers can use AI to craft highly convincing messages that trick individuals into revealing personal information or believing a false message.
AI-Powered Robocalls
AI-powered robocalls have become a prevalent tool for election-related scams. These robocalls use AI to mimic human speech, making them sound more convincing and trustworthy. An AI-generated call or text message can be personalized to use the victim’s name, where they live, and other personal information.
Voters might receive calls that provide false information about voting locations, dates, or requirements, potentially leading to voter suppression. These calls also can solicit personal information under the guise of official election business, which can then be used for identity theft or other malicious purposes.
While the Federal Communications Commission recently ruled to expand the Telephone Consumer Protection Act to make it illegal to use AI-generated voice for robocalls, criminals are still going to take full advantage of this technology.
AI-Powered Misinformation Campaigns
AI-powered misinformation campaigns are designed to spread false or misleading information on a large scale. Using AI, bad actors can create and disseminate fake news articles, social media posts, and other content that can influence public opinion and voter behavior.
These campaigns often exploit social media algorithms to ensure that misleading content reaches a broad audience quickly. The automated nature of these campaigns allows them to be highly adaptive and responsive, making it challenging for traditional fact-checking mechanisms to keep up.
How to Help Avoid AI Scams
There are a number of ways to help avoid AI scams. Following are some of the best ways to protect yourself.
Fact Check
Be skeptical of information being shared by unverified sources. Make sure the source of information follows journalistic standards and has been shared by multiple reputable news organizations. Use reputable fact-checking sites such as Factcheck.org to verify information.
By cross-referencing information, voters can help ensure that they are not being misled by deepfakes or other AI-generated content.
Stay Aware and Informed
Education is key when it comes to staying on top of new AI scams. Keep up to date on the latest tactics and technology scammers are using and the potential risks associated with them.
Following trusted news sources and participating in community discussions also can help voters stay alert to new threats. Also share this knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues to help raise awareness.
Protect Personal Information
Protecting personal information, such as a Social Security number, date of birth, and driver’s license number, is essential to helping avoid falling victim to AI scams.
Voters should be cautious about sharing personal details online or over the phone, especially if the request seems unsolicited or suspicious.
Never open attachments from unexpected emails. And identity protection services help monitor personal data and provide alerts if there is possible suspicious activity.
Bottom Line
As AI technology continues to evolve, so do the tactics used by scammers, making it harder for victims to tell the difference between what is real and what is fake. Deepfake videos, AI phishing scams, AI-powered robocalls, and misinformation campaigns represent significant threats to the integrity of elections.
By fact-checking information, staying informed and aware, and protecting personal information, voters can take proactive steps to help safeguard themselves against these AI-driven threats.