The Pentagon is considering developing AI for mass online surveillance.
The US Department of Defense is considering using generative AI to create fake online personas, a new step in the development of online intelligence and information influence. According to the information published by the publication The InterceptThe US Special Operations Command (JSOC) has expressed interest in developing technologies that allow the generation of realistic users using AI. These fake profiles will be used to collect information on social networks and other open internet resources.
Target JSOC — provide special forces with tools to create convincing fake profiles, including facial images, biographical data, video and audio files. Such fake accounts are planned to be used for intelligence operations and to influence open discussions in the online environment.
The use of digital surveillance and Internet influence tools is not new for the Pentagon, but the inclusion of generative AI in these processes is a significant step forward. In 2023, the Ministry of Defense already announced its intention to investigate the possibilities of deep fakes for the tasks of the Special Operations Command (SOCOM). This initiative is aimed at creating more large-scale and complex technologies that will allow to influence the digital space.
The plans come as the US presidential election approaches, and they coincide with Project 2025, which is supported by supporters of Donald Trump. The project includes enhanced surveillance and intelligence operations with the use of AI, which experts believe could become the new standard for defense structures.
However, the Pentagon’s growing reliance on AI raises serious concerns. Experts warn that the use of such technologies for disinformation may push other countries to similar actions. This will pose a threat to global political stability, as it will become even more difficult to distinguish between truth and fakes.
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