Get pumped for the AI election frenzy

TLDR:

• One-third of election officials don’t have adequate funding to address cyber threats, including potential AI-driven attacks, for the 2024 election.
• AI tools are now available to the general public, making it easier for anyone with a political agenda to spread disinformation.
• Cybersecurity measures are often lacking due to budget constraints and understaffed election offices.

Artificial intelligence (AI) poses a new challenge for election officials as they prepare for the 2024 election, with one-third of officials reporting inadequate funding to address cyber threats, according to a survey by cybersecurity company Arctic Wolf. The availability of AI tools to the general public makes it easier for anyone with a political agenda to spread disinformation. AI can be used to create more sophisticated phishing emails and spread false information about voting dates or polling place closures. However, election offices often lack the resources necessary to combat these threats, with many being understaffed and underfunded. While the government has increased its presence to help localities access federal resources, experts emphasize the need for voter awareness about the use of AI to impact the information they consume about elections.