Generative AI models like ChatGPT and DALL-E transformed the presence of AI on social media. These changes include the spread of AI-generated images, AI-doctored photos known as deepfakes and cartoon-like memes appearing on social media.
AI posts affect social media and its users in an unprecedented way. In the midst of the upcoming general election on Nov. 5, presidential candidates use social media posts with AI-generated content in their campaigns.
According to a study by an AI detection platform called Copyleaks, AI-generated content online experienced an 8000% increase in the past ten years. Its effect on social media users (does what?)
“I’m seeing more and more [AI-generated images] … on Instagram and other social media platforms,” said Camelia Perez, director of educational technology and innovation.
While AI-generated images may be relatively easy to recognize, this has not stopped AI content creators from flooding social media with these images.
“[They are] mimicking all of the elements [that] made something go viral. But they’re putting in the most bizarre images I’ve ever seen,” freelance writer Brian Penny said in an interview with National Public Radio (NPR).
Some Urban students notice this type of content on social media. “It’s just stupid stuff, like Trump and Biden kissing,” August Wintroub-Hansen ‘26 said.
On Aug. 18, 2024, former President Donald Trump used AI-generated images to spread misinformation on X. “I saw an image of Taylor Swift that [suggested] that she had endorsed [Trump],” History Teacher Ruthann Betkey said.
In an attempt to turn public opinion away from Kamala Harris’ immigration policies, Trump claimed that Haitian immigrants eat their neighbors’ pets. This rumor from right-wing political circles affected residents of Springfield.
After debating Vice President Kamala Harris on Sept. 10, Trump posted an AI-generated image of kittens holding a sign that read, “DON’T LET THEM EAT US, Vote for Trump!”
The Springfield News-Sun wrote, “Several city, county and school buildings around Springfield were closed Thursday because of a bomb threat.”
Swing voters who often make up their minds in the final days before the election can be influenced by AI content on social media. “AI will enable campaigners to go after specific voting blocs with appeals that nudge them around particular policies,” Darrell West, senior fellow at Brookings Institution, said in an interview with Chatham House.
Attention-grabbing deepfakes and AI-generated content go viral quickly due to the type of content social media platforms prioritize. “The more attractive a photo or headline is, the more people are going to … respond and engage,” Perez said. “That’s the business model.”
