New York’s Attorney General is warning voters about fake campaign and voter information. Letitia James spoke with the New York Public Network about the way AI helps nefarious actors create convincing videos and other messages that mimic real people or official sources.
One example showed up in the last election cycle: “An AI generated President Biden called New Hampshire Democrats and told them not to vote,” said James. “Our office was involved, with a bad actor who surgically targeted black people in upstate New York, in Michigan, and in Illinois, and they basically told, communities of color, wrong information and inaccurate information with respect to where and when to vote.”
New York State outlaws any political materials created using AI unless it is clearly disclosed. Still, James advises voters to approach campaign materials, voter guides, and solicitations with a critical eye.
“Look at the source of the information, does it seem reliable? Are established news outlets reporting it? Is it on your local Board of Elections website. If it's shocking, emotional, or pushes you to act faster, stay home or slow down. Fakes are designed basically to get that reaction,” James said.
The Attorney General's offfice has issued a voter misinformation guide to help.
- For information on where, when, or how to vote, and voter eligibility, contact or visit state and local boards of elections’ websites. The OAG also operates an Election Protection Hotline during the voting period, which voters can contact to ask questions and file complaints.
- Do not rely on AI chatbots to answer questions about elections or voting.
- Be skeptical of photos, videos, and audio circulating online about elections, candidates, or their campaigns. Be especially careful with content that is emotional, shocking, or surprising. Remember that it may be fake.
- Do not assume something is real just because it looks or sounds real. AI fakes have improved so much that they may have no obvious flaws.
- Do not share content that seems suspicious without confirmation that it is real and accurate.
- Check any information on elections or voting that comes from unofficial sources, and encourage others to do the same.
- Be mindful that the information in a phone call about voting or elections may be inaccurate or fake. Remember to verify information with official sources.
- Report social media content that seems fake to the platform it is on.
- Report false information about elections or voting, especially about when, where, or how to vote, to the OAG.
- (Source: AG.NY.gov)
James is running for reelection against Republican challenger Saritha Komatireddy
If you do have questions about voting methods, times or places, James advises contacting your local board of elections or go to the Attorney General website.
