OpenAI blocks Iranian group from ChatGPT, says it targeted US election
America
By
VOA
| Aug 19, 2024
OpenAI said on Friday it had taken down accounts of an Iranian group for using its ChatGPT chatbot to generate content meant for influencing the U.S. presidential election and other issues.
The operation, identified as Storm-2035, used ChatGPT to generate content focused on topics such as commentary on the candidates on both sides in the U.S. elections, the conflict in Gaza and Israel's presence at the Olympic Games and then shared it via social media accounts and websites.
An investigation by the Microsoft-backed AI company showed that ChatGPT was used for generating long-form articles and shorter social media comments.
OpenAI said the operation did not appear to have achieved meaningful audience engagement.
READ MORE
Suspected jihadists killed 25 people in central Mali
Rights groups threaten strike over rising femicide cases
Crypto users face tougher rules as state moves to tighten oversight
Doctors set 90-day ultimatum for pay talks, warn of strike
Kabras chase history as KCB seek revenge in Kenya Cup final
Mwaura: Nine in 10 new jobs created in 2025 were informal
Top bank chiefs reap millions in pay and perks on bumper profits
World Relays action kicks off in Gaborone
Sofapaka staring at relegation as Gor Mahia eye title charge
Most of the identified social media posts received few or no likes, shares or comments, and the company did not see indications of web articles being shared across social media.
The accounts have been banned from using OpenAI's services, and the company continues to monitor activities for any further attempts to violate policies, it said.
Earlier in August, a Microsoft threat-intelligence report said Iranian Network Storm-2035, comprising four websites masquerading as news outlets, is actively engaging U.S. voter groups on opposing ends of the political spectrum.
The engagement was being built with "polarizing messaging on issues such as the U.S. presidential candidates, LGBTQ rights, and the Israel-Hamas conflict," the report stated.
Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican rival Donald Trump are locked in a tight race, ahead of the November 5 presidential election.
The AI firm said in May it had disrupted five covert influence operations that sought to use its models for "deceptive activity" across the internet.