Researchers uncover covert AI-powered pro-India influence network

Occurred: September 2024

A covert AI-powered influence network has for years been promoting pro-India narratives across X, Facebook and other social media platforms, according to researchers.

The network consists of at least 500 Facebook and 904 X (formerly Twitter) accounts that have been engaged what appears to be a coordinated effort to promote pro-India content, bolster the image of the Narendra Modi-led administration and undermine neighbouring countries.

The accounts were busily posting, reposting, and commenting on content intended to spread favour for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration in India. The content also routinely casts aspersions on China, the Maldives, Bangladesh (following the popular ousting of its former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina) and Pakistan.

Despite the extensive use of AI to generate content, the network's activities have not significantly increased audience engagement. Many posts received little interaction beyond replies from its own accounts, indicating that the influence efforts may have been largely ineffective.

Artificial intelligence - Bad actors and weaponized AI

Artificial intelligence provides a number of tools that are useful to bad actors, such as authoritarian governments, terrorists, criminals or rogue states.

Source: Wikipedia 🔗

System 🤖

Operator: 
Developer: Government of India
Country: Bangladesh; China; Maldives; Pakistan
Sector: Politics
Purpose: Damage reputation
Technology: Machine learning
Issue: Mis/disinformation