China and Iran-based threat actors discover new methods to exploit American AI models for covert influence, report finds

Amid rapid advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), threat actors from countries like **China and Iran** are reportedly finding new ways to exploit **U.S.-based AI models** for covert influence operations. A recent **February threat report from OpenAI** has revealed that these actors are leveraging AI-powered tools to manipulate information, spread propaganda, and conduct influence campaigns with greater sophistication than ever before.

As AI continues to shape global communication, it is crucial to understand how these malicious actors operate and what steps can be taken to mitigate such threats.

—

## How Are China and Iran Using U.S. AI Models?

### **1. Leveraging AI for Large-Scale Misinformation Campaigns**
Threat actors reportedly use AI to automate and **scale misinformation campaigns**. By generating realistic and persuasive text, they can create misleading narratives that blend seamlessly with genuine news. This makes it harder for average consumers to discern between factual information and propaganda.

### **2. Creating Fake Social Media Accounts and Bots**
One of the primary tactics used involves AI-generated **social media accounts** that act as bots to spread false narratives across platforms. With the ability to mimic human conversation patterns, these accounts can engage with real users, respond to trending topics, and amplify misleading content efficiently.

### **3. Analyzing Online Behavior for Targeted Influence**
AI models enable **threat actors to analyze human behavior** at an advanced level. By monitoring online interactions, preferences, and search trends, these actors can craft highly targeted propaganda campaigns that manipulate public opinion **without raising immediate suspicion**.

—

## The Role of U.S.-Based AI Tools in These Operations

Despite security measures, **U.S.-based AI models** are still being misused by foreign actors to support their agendas. The **OpenAI report** highlights the ongoing challenge faced by AI developers in ensuring their technology isn’t being exploited for **malicious purposes**. Some of the ways in which these actors are utilizing American AI tools include:

• **Generating Deepfake Content** – AI can be used to create images, videos, and audio clips that impersonate real people, increasing the spread of disinformation.
• **Automating Fake News Articles** – AI-generated text allows bad actors to efficiently craft biased or misleading news reports that appear professional and credible.
• **Optimizing Engagement Strategies** – AI-driven data analysis helps determine the most effective ways to **influence audiences** through content, ads, and tailored discussions.

—

## Why This Should Concern Governments and Citizens

With AI capabilities expanding, **the potential for influence campaigns to disrupt democracies and international stability is growing**. If left unchecked, these tactics could:

• **Undermine elections and political processes** by spreading manipulated narratives.
• **Erode public trust in legitimate news sources**, making it harder for people to differentiate between real and fake information.
• **Increase social and geopolitical tensions** by amplifying divisive issues and misinformation.

Government agencies, tech companies, and the public must stay vigilant against these AI-driven threats by **implementing stricter regulations, enhancing AI monitoring systems, and improving public awareness efforts**.

—

## Countermeasures: Combating AI-Powered Influence Attempts

Stopping AI-driven influence operations will require a **multi-pronged approach**. Here are some potential countermeasures that could be taken:

### **1. Strengthening AI Detection Systems**
Developing robust **AI-powered detection tools** will help identify and shut down malicious accounts, deepfake content, and misinformation campaigns **before they gain traction**.

### **2. Enhancing Platform Security and Moderation**
Tech companies must **implement stricter AI usage policies**, ensuring that their models are not being exploited by foreign entities. This includes constant updates to prevent misuse and stronger **verification systems**.

### **3. Increasing Public Awareness & Education**
The general public needs better **education on recognizing misinformation**. Providing users with tools and guidelines to identify AI-generated content can help **reduce the spread of disinformation**.

### **4. Government Cooperation & Policy Development**
Stronger international cooperation and well-defined policies can help **track, restrict, and penalize malicious AI use**. Governments should work together to establish regulations that prevent **AI abuse by foreign actors**.

—

## Final Thoughts

As AI technology continues to evolve, so do the tactics of malicious actors aiming to manipulate **public perception** and global politics. The latest OpenAI report serves as a stark reminder that **U.S.-based AI tools are being exploited by foreign adversaries** like China and Iran to conduct influence operations at an unprecedented scale.

By strengthening detection mechanisms, enforcing stricter regulations, and educating the public, we can combat the **AI-powered disinformation threat** before it further **undermines trust in digital spaces and social institutions**.

Staying informed and aware is the first step in addressing this critical issue.