OpenAI reports growing Chinese exploitation of its AI systems for covert operations targeting geopolitical narratives. The company’s latest threat intelligence reveals China-linked actors using ChatGPT to generate divisive content, support cyber operations, and manipulate social media discourse on topics relevant to Chinese interests. While these operations remain relatively small-scale and limited in reach, they demonstrate how state-aligned groups are weaponizing generative AI technologies for influence campaigns.
The big picture: OpenAI has identified multiple instances of Chinese groups misusing its technology for covert information operations, detailed in a new report released Thursday.
- The San Francisco-based AI company has detected and banned ChatGPT accounts generating politically motivated content aligned with Chinese government interests.
- These operations, while expanding in scope and tactics, have generally remained small-scale with limited audience reach.
Key details: Chinese operators used ChatGPT to create politically charged social media content on topics directly relevant to China’s geopolitical interests.
- Content included criticism of a Taiwan-centric video game, false accusations against a Pakistani activist, and material related to USAID closure.
- Some generated posts criticized U.S. President Trump’s tariff policies with messages like: “Tariffs make imported goods outrageously expensive, yet the government splurges on overseas aid. Who’s supposed to keep eating?”
Tactical applications: China-linked threat actors leveraged AI across multiple phases of their cyber operations.
- OpenAI observed ChatGPT being used for open-source research, script modification, troubleshooting system configurations, and developing specialized tools.
- These tools included password brute forcing utilities and social media automation systems designed to amplify influence operations.
Divisive tactics: One China-origin influence operation generated polarized content supporting both sides of contentious U.S. political issues.
- The operation created AI-generated profile images alongside divisive text content designed to inflame existing tensions in American political discourse.
- This approach represents a sophisticated evolution in information operations, moving beyond simple propaganda to exploiting societal divisions.
Market context: This threat intelligence comes as OpenAI solidifies its position as a dominant force in the AI industry.
- The company recently announced a massive $40 billion funding round, valuing the startup at $300 billion.
- China’s foreign ministry has not yet responded to Reuters’ request for comment on OpenAI’s findings.
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