As electoral advertising begins in Bahia, Brazil, candidates face challenges posed by advanced technologies like AI and deepfakes, raising concerns about the integrity of the electoral process.
Electoral Advertising Commences Amidst Concerns Over AI and Deepfake Misuse
Bahia, Brazil – Friday marks the beginning of a new phase in electoral advertising, one that brings significant challenges in an era of rapidly advancing technology. As candidates strive to present their platforms honestly, they must also navigate the potential pitfalls posed by emerging technological tools.
Focus on Results Amidst Technological Advances
The push for consequentialism—prioritising outcomes—has become increasingly prevalent, yet the integrity of the electoral process remains paramount. The launch of electoral advertising presents both opportunities and risks, particularly concerning the use of sophisticated technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and deepfake software.
Threats from Advanced Technologies
AI and deepfake technology represent substantial threats to the veracity of electoral communications. Deepfakes, which involve the manipulation of audio or video to drastically alter the original content, have the potential to cause severe damage by spreading misinformation. The task of monitoring and penalising these deceptive practices is a Herculean effort due to the horizontal architecture of the internet, which operates as a vast and complex network beyond the control of any single government.
Challenges in Policing Digital Misconduct
The notion of AI as possessing an “intelligent” capability to make decisions autonomously complicates the oversight of digital misconduct. These technologies can emulate human behaviours in persuasive ways, from simple tasks to complex decision-making processes, often based on calculated algorithms involving symbols and keywords.
Given these advancements, responsible voters must be diligent in recognising and reporting fraudulent activities to aid regulatory bodies in their efforts to curb misinformation. Current legislation, particularly the Tribunal Superior Eleitoral’s (TSE) Resolution 23.610/2019, aims to regulate electoral publicity to preempt manipulative digital tactics.
Battle Between Technological Expertise and Electoral Integrity
As regional tribunals and IT specialists continue to grapple with these issues, the unpredictability of technological influence on elections remains a significant concern. Nonetheless, reliance on verified information disseminated through established media channels, along with public events where falsehoods are harder to sustain, provides some measure of reassurance.
Campaigns Under Scrutiny to Maintain Fairness
Candidates and electoral bodies must work jointly to uphold the integrity of electoral advertising. By ensuring transparency and combatting the misuse of advanced technologies, it is hoped that the democratic process will remain fair and just, enabling voters to make informed decisions based on truthful representations.
