OpenAI says Chinese cops used ChatGPT to track smear ops against opponents (www.theregister.com)

OpenAI has revealed that a user linked to Chinese law enforcement attempted to leverage ChatGPT to orchestrate smear campaigns against critics of the Chinese Communist Party, including Japan's first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi. This user sought to manipulate the AI for covert influence operations by generating plans to spread negative commentary and using fake accounts to amplify these messages, illustrating a disturbing trend where AI tools are weaponized for political repression and disinformation. The significance of this incident lies in its implications for the AI/ML community, highlighting the challenges of preventing malicious uses of advanced technologies. OpenAI's report underscores the sophistication of these operations, noting that they employed a variety of tactics, such as psychological pressure and digital harassment aimed at silencing dissidents globally. While the user’s smearing efforts saw limited engagement on social media, the situation raises critical questions about accountability, AI governance, and the responsibility of tech companies to mitigate misuse of their systems, particularly in politically sensitive contexts.