Taiwan authorities report deepfake fraud and misinformation in elections
Taiwan authorities reported that AI-generated deepfake videos and false information circulated widely during 2024 elections on social media platforms like TikTok, with slow removal processes allowing most misinformation to remain online during voting.
What happened
During Taiwan's 2024 presidential and legislative elections, multiple AI-generated deepfake videos and false information circulated on social media platforms including TikTok. The Central Election Commission identified 105 false or deepfake videos total, removing 54 after the election concluded, meaning most misinformation remained online during voting.
A deepfake video of former DPP legislator Kao Chia-yu falsely depicted her criticizing the DPP on a political talk show. Deepfake images of KMT Taipei city councillor Chung Pei-chun's father, Chung Tse-liang, were distributed online. Media personality Wang Jui-de threatened to sue over the fabricated content.
Reported impact
National Security Bureau director Tsai Ming-yen warned that unmanaged circulation of false videos turns victims into perpetrators as they unknowingly repost fabricated content. Legislator Hsu Chiao-hsin stated the situation compromised election fairness and harmed social stability.
Index analysis
The delay in removing false content meant misinformation affected public discourse during voting. TikTok does not have local operations in Taiwan, limiting platform cooperation beyond ad-hoc measures. National Security Bureau officials stated building communication channels with international tech companies requires additional time.
Governance controls
The Central Election Commission coordinated with social media platforms during elections to remove false information and fake accounts. Legislator Hsu Chiao-hsin called for creating a dedicated 'internet rapid-response team' to reduce deepfake harms.
Classification
Sources and evidence
This record was researched and written by the Index, based on the following original reporting.