On the one hand, AI-powered tools were used to spread misinformation and propaganda. Deepfakes, in particular, posed a significant threat, as they can be incredibly convincing and difficult to distinguish from real videos. However, it's worth noting that the actual impact of deepfakes was relatively limited, and they did not have the profound influence on the elections that many had feared.
On the other hand, AI was also used in more positive ways, such as helping to identify and combat misinformation. For example, fact-checking initiatives and AI-powered tools were used to verify the authenticity of videos and images, and to identify potential deepfakes.
The use of AI in the 2024 elections also highlighted the need for greater media literacy and critical thinking. As AI-generated content becomes increasingly sophisticated, it's essential that people are able to effectively evaluate the information they encounter online.
In India, the upcoming national elections in 2024 have raised concerns about the potential misuse of AI-generated content, including deepfakes. To combat this, tech giants have announced initiatives to tackle the proliferation of harmful AI-generated content, and fact-checking helplines have been set up to help voters verify the authenticity of information.
Overall, the role of AI in the 2024 elections was complex and multifaceted. While there were certainly challenges and concerns, AI also played a positive role in helping to combat misinformation and promote media literacy.