UK government takes action to safeguard elections from AI interference

The UK government is intensifying efforts to safeguard future elections from interference or manipulation by artificial intelligence (AI). Concerns about the risks posed by AI technology, including threats to democracy, have become a top priority for the government in the last weeks. Rishi Sunak, speaking at the G7 summit, pledged that the UK would lead international efforts to regulate AI and prevent dangerous risks. 

Officials are expected to employ new legislation and other measures to address AI threats and prevent deepfakes and misinformation from influencing elections. A specialised Election Cell will be established ahead of the next general election, and the Counter Disinformation Unit will be strengthened to combat harmful or false content during election campaigns. 

Furthermore, the Online Safety Bill and National Security Bill, both currently under consideration, contain provisions to tackle AI-related election risks. The government stated that it is committed to protecting democratic processes and institutions by ordering companies to remove illegal content from their platforms, including deepfakes, under the Online Safety Bill. Experts have called for quicker action on regulation and protections against AI. 

The G7 leaders have agreed to collaborate in ensuring trustworthy AI and guarding against disinformation and copyright infringement. Earlier this week, various industries, including education, raised concerns about AI’s potential negative and disruptive impact, such as plagiarism and deepfakes.