Robocall posing as Biden threatens election security in New Hampshire
In an unprecedented move aimed at voter suppression, a robocall impersonating President Joe Biden has been circulating in New Hampshire, instructing Democrats not to participate in the primary election. This fraudulent call, mimicking Biden's voice, is part of a disinformation campaign that has prompted an investigation by the New Hampshire Attorney General.
Jan 24, 2024 | updated: 7:16 AM EST, February 1, 2024
The Robocall and Its Contents
The fake robocall, delivered in a voice resembling President Biden's, urged Democrats to "save their vote for the November election," misleadingly claiming that participating in the Tuesday primary would aid Republican efforts to re-elect Donald Trump. The call included a phone number that, upon investigation, was found to be linked to Kathleen Sullivan, a former New Hampshire Democratic Party chair and a treasurer of a political action committee. Sullivan denied involvement and reported receiving unexpected calls, leading to her filing a complaint with the state attorney general.
Investigation and Wider Concerns The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office has classified this incident as an "unlawful attempt to disrupt the New Hampshire Presidential Primary Election and to suppress New Hampshire voters." The incident raises significant concerns about using deepfake technology and AI-generated content in political campaigns. Experts have warned that such technology could be used to imitate political candidates and manipulate voters and poll workers, posing a serious threat to the integrity of elections.
Implications for Future Elections This event in New Hampshire highlights the growing challenges posed by emerging technologies and the spread of misinformation in the political arena. As the 2024 elections approach, the threat of artificial intelligence being used for influence operations has become more apparent, necessitating increased vigilance and robust countermeasures to protect the democratic process.
The use of AI to create convincing fake content, including political messages and impersonations, has become a pressing issue for election integrity, demanding immediate attention from both tech experts and policymakers.
Response to Misinformation
The New Hampshire Attorney General's Office's active investigation into this matter underscores the seriousness with which election interference is treated. Furthermore, this incident has sparked a broader conversation about the need for more effective regulation and monitoring of AI and deepfake technologies, especially in the context of political campaigns. It emphasizes the critical role of media literacy and public awareness in combating election-related disinformation.
Securing Future Elections Against AI Misuse
Securing elections against the misuse of AI and deepfake technology is paramount. Lawmakers, election officials, and technology experts must collaborate to develop strategies that safeguard the electoral process from such deceptive practices. This includes implementing stricter regulations on AI-generated content, enhancing cybersecurity measures, and educating the public on the risks of misinformation. The New Hampshire incident is a stark reminder of the potential threats to democratic processes in the age of advanced technology.
