OpenAI Blocks Iranian Group's ChatGPT Accounts For Targeting US Election

OpenAI said in a blog post on Friday that they have banned accounts linked to an Iranian influence operation using ChatGPT to generate content focused on multiple topics, including the US presidential campaign. The Microsoft-backed AI company also mentioned that the operation, identified as Storm-2035, did not appear to have achieved meaningful audience engagement.

"The operation used ChatGPT to generate content focused on a number of topics—including commentary on candidates on both sides in the U.S. presidential election—which it then shared via social media accounts and websites," said OpenAI in the post. According to OpenAI, the operation used ChatGPT for two purposes. This includes generating long-form articles and shorter social media comments. The company also identified a dozen accounts on X and one on Instagram involved in this operation. Notably, some of the X accounts posed as progressives and others as conservatives.

The generated content by the operation includes several topics like the conflict in Gaza, Israel’s presence at the Olympic Games, and the US presidential election. "They interspersed their political content with comments about fashion and beauty, possibly to appear more authentic or in an attempt to build a following," added OpenAI.