Deepfakes in the global election year of 2024: A weapon of mass deception?

This article examines the growing threat of AI-generated deepfakes and disinformation during the 2024 global election cycle, noting how cheap, accessible generative AI tools lower barriers for malicious actors to craft convincing content that can suppress or sway voter turnout. It cites recent examples such as a robocall deepfake mimicking President Biden, highlights challenges in detection and response across closed networks, and outlines modest platform countermeasures like C2PA watermarking. The piece warns that cognitive biases and the rapid spread of falsehoods may outpace fact-checking and policy efforts, potentially undermining trust and election legitimacy.