rki.news | Source: Anadolu Agency
SAN FRANCISCO: OpenAI said it banned accounts linked to Russian and Iranian influence operations that used artificial intelligence to spread geopolitical messages through online publications and social media.
The company said the campaigns combined AI with traditional techniques, including fake journalist identities and research platforms.
Fake journalists published articles
OpenAI said the Iran-linked operation used seven fake journalist identities to pitch articles to online publications. Nearly 100 articles appeared under their names across more than a dozen outlets, covering international affairs and the Middle East.
Operators allegedly used ChatGPT to edit articles and prepare emails to editors. They also generated English and Persian comments portraying the United States as an aggressor and Iran as a resilient victim. OpenAI said these comments received little engagement.
Russian-linked campaign targeted Ukraine
The Russian-linked operation targeted Latin American audiences, mainly seeking to undermine Ukraine’s reputation. Other efforts focused on politics in Argentina and Bolivia.
OpenAI said the campaign used a purported research platform called the Social Research Center. Internal reports suggested Russian operators controlled it through a fabricated identity. Local employees appeared unaware of the alleged links and conducted research in good faith.
The company found material matching some reported campaigns involving false claims about Ukraine, although certain allegations could not be corroborated.
OpenAI said it shared information about both operations with relevant authorities. It warned that AI could make influence campaigns more efficient and persuasive. The findings aim to help researchers identify and disrupt similar activities.
OpenAI Bans Accounts Linked to Russian and Iranian Influence Campaigns
