AI-generated false images rapidly spreading online following Ukraine conferences
In the digital age, the line between truth and fiction online is becoming increasingly blurred, as seen in the recent mocking of the EU delegation following the Ukraine summit in Washington. Russian websites, such as the Prawda network based in Moscow, are using AI-generated content to spread disinformation and undermine diplomatic efforts.
One example of this is an AI-generated image of European heads of state and government being mocked by a conservative political analyst on the online service X. Similarly, AI-generated videos of President Trump and Kremlin Chief Putin have been circulating online, depicting them dancing, sliding down snowy slopes, and even fighting on a red carpet.
The spread of AI-generated content, such as memes, videos, and fake images, is increasing on online services like X and TikTok. This proliferation is partly due to digital companies like Meta, X, and TikTok scaling back content moderation, allowing AI-generated content to spread faster.
Newsguard, a company that evaluates the credibility of internet sites, has noted that pro-Kremlin sources often use high-level meetings to spread false claims. Fact-checkers from the news agency AFP were able to prove that some of the AI-generated images were not authentic, based on visual inconsistencies.
The dissemination of AI-generated content without appropriate fake warnings is a significant concern. Online platforms offer financial incentives for viral content, which can contribute to its spread. This situation is particularly problematic when it comes to diplomatic efforts to end conflicts, such as the ongoing Ukraine war. Big tech companies are taking little action against fake news accompanying these efforts.
The use of AI-generated content is not limited to the Ukraine summit but extends to other events involving Trump and Putin. For instance, before the Ukraine summit, AI-generated videos of the leaders were circulated online, showing them sliding down snowy slopes, eating ice cream, and dancing with a polar bear.
The meeting between Trump and Putin in Alaska preceded the Ukraine summit. Another AI-generated video showed the leaders fighting on a red carpet with security personnel watching helplessly. The increasing reliance on AI-generated content is raising questions about the integrity of online information and the need for stricter content moderation policies.
