OpenAI has taken the decision to shut down several ChatGPT accounts that were found to be linked to an Iranian-backed influence operation. This decision was made because these accounts were producing content related to the US presidential election and were spreading on social media platforms, attempting to misinform and manipulate public opinion. OpenAI’s investigations revealed that these accounts were associated with a covert Iranian operation called Storm-2035. Storm-2035 attempted to influence voters in the US by producing fake content on various political and social issues.
As part of the operation, long articles and social media comments were created using ChatGPT. These contents were published on platforms such as Instagram and X. Content was produced in a way that would create divisions between both Democrats and Republicans, especially regarding the US presidential elections. However, the target of the operation was not only the US elections. Different and sensitive topics such as the Israel-Hamas war, Israel’s presence in the Olympic Games, the political situation in Venezuela and the rights of Latinx communities in the US were also the focus of this content.
Iran’s digital influence operations
Iran has long been known as a country that conducts propaganda and influence operations through digital platforms. These operations are aimed at interfering in the domestic politics of Western countries and causing divisions in society. In this context, Operation Storm-2035 also attracted attention with fake news sites and social media campaigns targeting US society and elections.
OpenAI’s research has shown that this operation has failed to have the desired impact. The vast majority of content published on social media platforms reached a limited audience and received little engagement. This suggests that the operation has failed to reach a broader public. However, the efforts of OpenAI and other technology companies to detect and stop such operations are an important step in election security.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches in the US, there are concerns that such digital interference attempts may increase. In recent weeks, former US President Donald Trump announced that his campaign was targeted by an Iranian hacker group. The attack, which began with a phishing email sent to Trump’s campaign team, is under investigation by the FBI. It is also reported that similar attacks on the Biden-Harris campaign are also being investigated.
These types of operations, especially during election periods, conducted via digital platforms have the potential to undermine the legitimacy and security of elections. Therefore, it is critical for companies like OpenAI to detect and take action against such threats to protect democracies not only in the US but globally. It is clear that stricter measures must be taken against such digital interventions that threaten the security of elections.