The 2024 US presidential election is taking place under a cloud of foreign interference, and tech giants are sounding the alarm. Microsoft President Brad Smith has warned that the final 48 hours before the election will be the most critical period for potential interference, with adversaries like Iran and Russia expected to ramp up their efforts.
During a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, Smith emphasized that the “most perilous moment” for foreign interference will occur just before Americans cast their ballots on November 5th. The election pits Vice President Kamala Harris of the Democratic Party against Republican nominee Donald Trump.
Smith wasn’t alone in expressing concerns. Kent Walker, President and Chief Legal Officer of Google’s parent company Alphabet, and Nick Clegg, Meta’s President of Global Affairs, also testified, highlighting the increasing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in election meddling.
This warning comes on the heels of a Microsoft report that detailed specific instances of Iranian and Russian interference. The report alleges that Russia has primarily targeted Harris, while Iran has focused its efforts on Trump. Both countries are suspected of employing tactics such as spreading fake videos, hacking campaigns, and disseminating disinformation.
Smith cited the 2023 Slovakian election as a cautionary tale. In that election, a fake audio recording of a candidate went viral, demonstrating the potential for AI-generated content to manipulate public opinion. Microsoft’s report provides concrete examples of Russia’s alleged disinformation tactics. One example involves a fake video that portrays Harris supporters attacking a Trump rally attendee. Another video spreads false claims about Harris’s involvement in a hit-and-run incident. Finally, multiple videos were created to discredit Harris’s campaign using fabricated content, such as images of a fake billboard promoting false information about her policies.
Google’s Walker echoed these concerns, stating that foreign actors are experimenting with AI to enhance cyberattacks, create misleading news articles, and generate fake social media posts.
The lack of a representative from X (formerly Twitter), now owned by Trump supporter Elon Musk, at the Senate hearing adds another layer of complexity to the situation.
The testimonies from tech executives paint a stark picture of the challenges posed by foreign interference in the upcoming election. As the election draws near, vigilance and awareness of potential disinformation campaigns will be crucial for ensuring a fair and credible outcome.
