China is charged with using AI as a weapon to threaten Taiwan's democracy

Report Flags Alleged Use of AI by China to Influence Taiwan Elections

New findings have raised concerns over China’s alleged use of artificial intelligence tools to interfere in Taiwan’s democratic processes, with investigators warning that advanced digital systems are being used to influence public opinion ahead of elections.

According to a report by The Taipei Times, internal documents from a Chinese technology company suggest a coordinated effort to shape political discourse in Taiwan and Hong Kong. The documents were obtained by the Institute of National Security at Vanderbilt University and describe the activities of a firm called GoLaxy, which is believed to have close links with Chinese state institutions.

The documents indicate that GoLaxy developed AI-powered systems capable of monitoring online discussions, analysing public sentiment and identifying influential social media users. These tools were allegedly used to influence political narratives online.

The report adds that the technology goes beyond basic data tracking. It can create realistic fake online personas that interact with real users, spread customised messages and subtly influence political opinions. Experts say such methods blur the line between genuine public debate and state-backed psychological operations.

A Taiwanese AI expert told The Taipei Times that rapid advances in generative AI have made it increasingly difficult to tell the difference between authentic online activity and coordinated manipulation. This has raised fresh concerns about the safety and fairness of Taiwan’s elections.

The report also refers to previously leaked audio recordings linked to earlier elections. These recordings allegedly captured conversations involving individuals connected to the People’s Liberation Army and a Beijing-based data analytics firm. The discussions reportedly included plans to influence voter sentiment during the 2018 Kaohsiung mayoral race and future national elections, with significant funding allocated for such efforts.

Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council has expressed serious concern, warning that such activities pose a direct threat to democratic institutions. Officials have called for stronger countermeasures, improved digital literacy among citizens, and increased vigilance against online manipulation, according to The Taipei Times.