In an era where misinformation floods social media feeds and truth can be difficult to discern, Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) is sounding the alarm on a new threat to democracy: Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI). This cutting-edge technology, while offering immense potential for creativity and innovation, also presents a perilous tool in the hands of those seeking to deceive voters and manipulate elections.
GenAI enables the swift and cost-effective creation of realistic images, videos, audio, and text. However, researchers at CMU caution that during elections, this very technology can be exploited to fabricate convincing falsehoods, effectively weaponizing misinformation on a scale previously unseen.
Hoda Heidari, leader of the Responsible AI Initiative at CMU’s Block Center for Technology and Society, stresses the gravity of the situation, stating, “The use of GenAI to fabricate compelling information poses a real threat to our democracy.” Heidari, along with other experts, has co-authored a comprehensive guide aimed at educating voters about the potential misuse of this technology, particularly by foreign adversaries seeking to undermine American democracy.
The guide not only raises awareness but also offers tangible steps for voters to safeguard the integrity of the democratic process. Kathleen M. Carley, Director of CMU’s Center for Informed Democracy and Social-cybersecurity (IDeaS), emphasizes the importance of critically evaluating information encountered on social media and scrutinizing its sources. She warns that GenAI has the power to distort public discourse, creating fictitious narratives and fabricating the appearance of support from genuine individuals.
The ramifications of such manipulation extend beyond mere misinformation. Alex John London, Director of CMU’s Center for Ethics and Policy, underscores the potential for GenAI to suppress votes, spread propaganda, and cast doubt on the legitimacy of elections.
With the absence of robust regulations governing the use of GenAI in political campaigns, the onus falls on voters to advocate for change. The guide urges citizens to engage with legislators, demanding stronger AI regulation and transparency regarding candidates’ use of GenAI.
The development of this guide is a collaborative effort funded by the Block Center for Technology and Society and the School of Computer Science at CMU, in partnership with the Center for IDeaS. It serves as a vital resource in navigating the complex intersection of technology and democracy.
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like those spearheaded by CMU are essential in equipping voters with the knowledge and tools necessary to protect the sanctity of democratic processes.
For those interested in learning more and accessing the guide, visit here.
In the face of looming threats posed by advanced technologies, institutions like CMU are at the forefront, championing informed citizenship and safeguarding the principles upon which democracy rests.
The Block Center for Technology and Society, established in 2019, focuses on examining the impact of emerging technologies on various facets of society, including the future of work, social good through AI and analytics, and promoting inclusivity and equality in innovation.
The Center for IDeaS at CMU is dedicated to enhancing social-cybersecurity to uphold an informed democratic society. It strives to detect, understand, predict, and mitigate the adverse effects of online harms, such as disinformation, hate speech, and extremism, in order to foster civil engagement and preserve democratic values.